Donald Trump’s Independence Day Speech Drawn to 1950 Film ‘Sunset Boulevard’ as Critics Highlight Authoritarian Shifts

Donald Trump’s July 4th speech, delivered during a storm-delayed 250th-anniversary celebration of the Declaration of Independence, drew comparisons to the 1950 film *Sunset Boulevard*, which chronicles an aging silent film star clinging to past glories.

Why Did Trump’s Speech Resemble ‘Sunset Boulevard’?

The speech, which was delayed by a thunderstorm and delivered past 11 p.m. on July 4, revisited triumphs like the liberation of Europe from Nazi rule and the defeat of communism. These references were described as poignant, because they took place so long ago and the actress has lost her stardom and been forgotten.

What Did Trump’s Speech Include?

Trump’s speech honored living heroes of past American wars and referenced the Declaration of Independence’s “decent respect for the opinions of mankind,” a phrase from the original document. The speech was described as “turgid and boastful, without a single memorable line or inspiring grace note.”

How Has Trump’s Foreign Policy Evolved?

Under Donald Trump, the United States has fought military conflicts in Venezuela and Iran, nearly fought a war with Denmark to seize Greenland, and often speaks of annexing all or part of Canada. It has waged economic war on allies and partners in violation of international trade agreements and domestic law. Soon the United States may be engaged in a war in Cuba. Already, the U.S. has cut back aid to Ukraine as that country fights for its survival and freedom.

What Are the Implications for U.S. Global Standing?

Trump is building an American future oriented toward authoritarian and corrupt states: Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia. Democratic allies are treated, at best, as subjects to be bullied and, at worst, as targets to be carved up into new American territories. The 250th-anniversary events, marked by logistical failures and a delayed fireworks display, were seen as symbolic of how far his leadership has already pushed the United States away from its noblest past.

What’s Next for Trump’s Political Legacy?

Trump’s speech demanded credit for a history that Trump regards as a sucker’s mistake. To the extent the decision is up to Trump, the United States that his speech celebrated on July 4 will exist no more.