Democrats under fire this week faced fierce backlash for their somber and politically charged messages on Independence Day. Former Vice President Kamala Harris shared a reflective July 4 post that alarmed critics more than it inspired supporters. She said things were difficult now and could get worse before they improved. Harris posted a photo of herself and her husband at the White House but cropped out President Joe Biden and the First Lady.
Many users noticed the cropping immediately and mocked Harris using one of her past slogans. Several claimed her message was filled with pessimism rather than patriotic pride. Former President Biden took a milder tone in his holiday message. Still, he urged Americans to continue fighting to preserve democracy.
Former President Barack Obama also weighed in with a message of concern. He said democracy in America felt increasingly under attack. Obama stressed that democracy thrives only when people remain engaged and united. He also repeated his past campaign slogan, “Yes We Can,” to inspire civic action.
Obama emphasized that the word “we” holds unmatched power in a true democracy. He noted America belongs to all citizens, not just political leaders. However, his post warned that cynicism and disengagement are growing threats worldwide.
Democrats under fire did not stop with just the former presidents and vice president. Senator Bernie Sanders joined the chorus with his own warning. He echoed the anti-Trump “No Kings” slogan, calling it a modern-day revolutionary stance. Sanders claimed Americans again reject despotism on July 4, just like they did in 1776.
Critics quickly fired back. Many reminded Sanders that Donald Trump was elected in a democratic process, not crowned like a monarch. Xi Van Fleet, a survivor of Mao’s Cultural Revolution, responded sharply to Obama. She accused Democratic leaders of working to dismantle America’s core values. She declared that “We the People” are reclaiming the country from those who she said despise it.
Democrats under fire, also faced heat for using Independence Day as a platform for political messaging. Opponents argued that the holiday should unite, not divide, the American public. As November approaches, political messaging even on national holidays—will likely face growing scrutiny from both sides.
The fireworks may have ended, but the fallout from this year’s July 4 messages continues to spark debate online.
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