Trump speech, flyover confirmed as part of July Fourth schedule

The Department of Interior on Wednesday released a schedule of events for Independence Day, which this year will include an address from President Trump titled “Salute to America,” military demonstrations and flyovers, a parade as well as an expansion of open areas along the National Mall.

“For the first time in many years, the World War II Memorial and areas around the Reflecting Pool will be open for the public to enjoy a stunning fireworks display and an address by our Commander-in-Chief,” Interior Secretary David Bernhardt said in a statement.

“We are excited to open these new areas so that more visitors may experience this year’s Independence Day celebration in our nation’s capital.”{mosads}

Trump previously teased that he would give a speech at the traditionally non-partisan event celebrating the nation’s birthday.

The Washington Post reported Tuesday that the flyover would involve one of the jets used as Air Force One, though Trump is not expected to be on the presidential aircraft.

Trump’s involvement in the holiday celebration has drawn some pushback from Democratic lawmakers and local officials who have raised concerns that the president is politicizing the long-standing tradition of fireworks on the Mall, and that his presence will drain additional resources from the National Park Service.

Fireworks have in the past been shot off from behind the Lincoln Memorial, with the area along the reflecting pool and near the World War II memorial cordoned off.

The Department of the Interior said those areas will be open to view the fireworks this year, as the display will be launched from West Potomac Park, about a half mile south of the Lincoln Memorial.