Former President Barack Obama shared a poignant message for the Fourth of July this Sunday — which also happens to be the birthday of his daughter, Malia. Former President Donald Trump spent his Fourth of July weekend considerably differently, ranting at a Saturday night rally in Florida, where he complained about criminal charges that were recently issued in New York against his company and its chief financial officer, Allen Weisselberg. Trump acknowledged the foundational claims against the Trump Organization and Weisselberg — that pricey executive benefits went out without taxes getting paid — but he mocked the idea that such a scenario constituted criminal activity, although generally speaking, tax law clearly demands tax payments on so-called “fringe benefits.”
Meanwhile, alongside a photo of himself and Malia, former President Obama shared as follows, providing clear contrast from the vitriol from Trump and co.:
‘Happy Fourth of July, and Happy Birthday, Malia! It’s been such a joy to watch you begin to make your own way in the world with poise, grace, and humor. I miss the days when you thought the fireworks were for you.’
Happy Fourth of July, and Happy Birthday, Malia! It’s been such a joy to watch you begin to make your own way in the world with poise, grace, and humor. I miss the days when you thought the fireworks were for you. pic.twitter.com/tEF7q1wtEi
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 4, 2021
Although there’s still a ways to go, the U.S. is at least doing considerably better than last Fourth of July, which came right in the middle of the Trump administration’s refusal to respond more seriously to the raging pandemic. While in office, Trump often seemed to prefer golfing, watching television, and ranting on Twitter to taking the presidency seriously. Now, the Biden administration has led a national vaccination program, with well over 150 million Americans fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The Biden administration has also instituted a national economic recovery program, providing money for state and local governments, expanded unemployment assistance (which is still available in many states), direct payments to millions of Americans, increased tax credits for parents, and more. Brighter days seemingly lie ahead.
