Extreme heat bears down as America 250 celebrations ramp up. Trump speaks at Mount Rushmore

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Festivities commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence ramped up across the United States on Friday as demonstrations of national pride — and hints of political polarization — were balanced with efforts to stay safe as much of the country baked under extreme heat. President Donald Trump spoke from Mount Rushmore, where he called the holiday “one of the most extraordinary days in the history of the world.” The sound of fighter jet