Bill Clinton, Obama, Mamdani slam Trump admin policies over immigration, Iran war in a message on 250th anniversary

Published 5 July 2026 · us

As Americans gathered across the country to celebrate the United States' 250th birthday on the Fourth of July, former Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and

As Americans gathered across the country to celebrate the United States' 250th birthday on the Fourth of July, former Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George Bush shared their messages to the country while simultaneously taking a veiled dig at incumbent President Donald Trump and his administration. ABC News reported on Saturday (local time) that one of the sharpest critiques came from Clinton, a Democrat, who slammed "the people in charge," referencing the current administration. Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 What did Bill Clinton criticize about the Trump administration during the Fourth of July message? ⌵ Bill Clinton criticized the Trump administration's policies on immigration and its handling of the Iran war, calling attention to the division and threats to democracy in the country. 2 Why did former Presidents emphasize the theme of democracy in their messages? ⌵ Presidents emphasized the theme of democracy to highlight the ongoing challenges and the need for accountability, shared values, and active participation in civic life to ensure a robust democratic society. 3 How did Barack Obama contribute to the discussions on America's future during the anniversary celebrations? ⌵ Barack Obama contributed by stating that America is a 'constant work in progress' and shared a video that emphasizes the importance of values and principles that support democracy.

4 What was George Bush's message about American citizenship in relation to Trump's policies? ⌵ George Bush urged Americans to be active citizens rather than spectators, reinforcing the idea that participation in democracy is essential for self-correction and addressing dissatisfaction with the current administration's direction. 5 What actions did New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani take regarding the Trump administration's policies? ⌵ Zohran Mamdani rebuked the Trump administration's policies and commented on the negative influence of ultra-rich individuals on democracy, expressing concern over economic inequality and the impact on society. Also Read | Melania copies Trump’s signature dance as first couple celebrates Fourth of July Presidents slam Trump in Fourth of July message In a statement released on Saturday, Clinton said, "Today, we celebrate this milestone amid another period of deep division, renewed questions about America’s future and role in the world, and serious threats to our own institutions and to our democracy itself." Further, he called out the Trump administration's policies on immigration and its handling of the Iran war. He added, "There is still nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what’s right with America. We see it in the people lining up to vote, no matter how hard some may try to prevent them." Clinton noted that one of the important lessons from the last 250 years is that the US continues to work towards being a more perfect union.