President Donald Trump was expected to deliver what the White House described as a “historic” speech late Saturday night celebrating the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, despite severe thunderstorms moving through Washington, D.C.
Event timing
Trump was originally scheduled to speak around 10 p.m. at the conclusion of the Salute to America event on the National Mall. Severe weather, however, caused delays throughout the evening.
A spokesperson for Freedom 250, the organization hosting the event, said Trump was expected to take the stage closer to 11 p.m., followed by a fireworks display. A senior White House official said event timing could continue to shift depending on weather conditions.
President’s remarks
Trump said he intended to proceed with the speech regardless of the storms.
“I’m going through bad weather. No matter what happens, I am delivering this speech,” Trump told Fox News anchor Bret Baier during a phone interview.
The comment came after Baier interviewed World War II veterans who had taken shelter during the temporary pause in programming.
“If they can storm the beaches on D-Day, I can deliver a speech and we can keep this program going,” Trump said.
In a post on Truth Social later Saturday, Trump added, “It’s Saturday night, LETS HAVE SOME FUN, even if we are out late tonight.”
Speech focus
According to a senior White House official, Trump’s address was expected to reflect on American history since the nation’s founding and highlight stories of what the administration described as American heroes.
The official said the speech would be different in tone and structure from Trump’s previous addresses, calling it “unique.”
Earlier comments
Earlier in the day, Trump praised what he described as strong attendance in Washington, despite heat and storms. In a Truth Social post, he described the crowds as “incredible” and said the country was “stronger than ever.”
He also highlighted military air shows over the capital, saying the pilots and aircraft were performing at an unprecedented level.
Trump additionally addressed vandalism reported at the Reflecting Pool, criticizing those responsible and saying repairs would take place after the holiday weekend.
Context
The speech followed Trump’s appearance at Mount Rushmore the previous day, where he delivered a patriotic address and warned that communism posed a significant threat to the United States.
Saturday evening’s events unfolded as a severe thunderstorm moved through Washington, prompting emergency officials to urge people gathered on the National Mall to seek shelter.
FAQs
What is Trump’s speech about?
It focuses on America’s 250th anniversary and national history.
Where was the speech scheduled?
On the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Why was the speech delayed?
Severe thunderstorms caused delays to the event.
Who organized the event?
The event was organized by Freedom 250.
Did Trump say he would cancel?
No, he said he would deliver the speech despite weather.
