July 4th Events Curtailed, The Week in Politics, A Funeral For Iran’s Supreme Leader

Independence Day 2026 unfolds amidst a backdrop of intense political polarization, a record-breaking heat wave, and significant national unease. President Trump’s recent Mount Rushmore address emphasized a perceived "communist menace" and internal threats, further deepening the divide between his supporters and critics. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court’s latest session delivered contentious rulings, including the upholding of birthright citizenship and the continued deregulation of campaign spending, while reports reveal the President’s substantial personal wealth growth during his term. Internationally, Iran begins a multi-day funeral procession for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a move the regime uses to project stability despite ongoing domestic unrest and global tensions. As the country marks its 250th anniversary, public sentiment remains subdued, reflecting a departure from the patriotic optimism seen in previous decades.