Former President Barack Obama encouraged people to be “smart” by celebrating Independence Day.
In what was a clear break from President Trump, Obama urged people to “listen to the experts” when it comes to how to stay safe amid increases in coronavirus cases, not “people trying to divide us.” .
“This holiday weekend, let’s be safe and smart. It will take all of us to beat this virus. So wear a mask. Wash your hands. And listen to the experts, not the people trying to divide us. That’s the only way we’ll this together “he said in a tweet on Friday that included a link to a New York Times Article titled: “Honor America’s Birthday (Safely) in 2020.”
Trump is expected to give a speech in South Dakota on Mount Rushmore during a July 4 celebration that will include fireworks.
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem said officials will provide masks to all attendees, but that wearing one is not mandatory. She also pointed out that social distancing will not be recommended.
Both are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
“Those who want to come and join us, we will give them free masts if they choose to use one, but we are not going to distance ourselves socially. We are asking them to come ready to celebrate, to enjoy the freedoms and liberties we have in this country, and to talk about our history. And what brought us today was an opportunity to raise our children in the largest country in the world, “Noem said on Fox News earlier this week.
Trump is expected to refer to the “left mob” and “cancel the culture” during his speech at the event, according to a campaign official.
Rob Crilly contributed to this report.
