Donald Trump has announced a gathering in Washington with fireworks to celebrate Independence Day, sparking ridicule online from commenters who suggested the president’s idea to have a party on 4 July is not a novel one.
The president announced his event on Twitter, saying that it will be held at the Lincoln Memorial. It is unclear if the event is intended to coincide or compete with the yearly celebration that is traditionally held on the other side of the National Mall.
“HOLD THE DATE! We will be having one of the biggest gatherings in the history of Washington, D.C., on July 4th. It will be called ‘A Salute To America’ and will be held at the Lincoln Memorial,” Mr Trump tweeted.
He continued: “Major fireworks display, entertainment and an address by your favourite President, me!”
Fellow Twitter users mocked the president's lack of originality.
"If this goes well, I think we should follow it with a big party in Times Square the night before New Year’s Day," Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democrat and frequent critic of Mr Trump's, tweeted.
“No, Trump isn’t planning anything for 4th of July. He’s just trying to take credit for the same fireworks show they’ve had in DC for over 100 years,” another tweet read.
A parody account of the president’s Twitter feed joked that he might take credit for Halloween next.
“I just had another great idea besides my brilliant Salute to America 4th of July thingy: How about we all dress up in costumes, maybe even scary ones...and go door to door asking for candy?? Lemme check my calendar...umm, ok, I'm free Oct 31. You in??” the parody account tweeted.
In 1970, supporters of Richard Nixon organised "Honour America Day", fronted by Bob Hope, to provide positive publicity on 4 July.
