Many believe that former President Barack Obama’s Fourth of July message was a sharp, though indirect, criticism of Donald Trump.
The speculation followed Trump’s announcement on Friday after Congress passed his so-called “big, beautiful bill” the day before (July 3), with a narrow 218-214 vote.
The nearly 1,000-page legislation is projected to add roughly $3.4 trillion to the national debt, which currently totals $36.2 trillion, over the next ten years.
Key elements of the bill include tax cuts that Trump pledged during his 2024 presidential campaign, as well as reductions in federal spending on healthcare and food safety programs.
Before the bill was passed, Obama had called on Americans to take action by contacting their representatives to oppose it.
He warned, “Over 16 million Americans could lose their healthcare because Republicans in Congress are trying to push through legislation that slashes Medicaid funding and weakens the Affordable Care Act.”
He added, “If the House passes this bill, it will drive up costs and damage working families for generations. Call your representative and urge them to vote no.”
Following the bill’s approval and on Independence Day itself, Obama posted a message on social media emphasizing collective responsibility and democratic values.
He wrote, “Independence Day is a reminder that America is not the work of any one individual.”
“The most powerful word in our democracy is ‘We.’ ‘We the People.’ ‘We Shall Overcome.’ ‘Yes We Can.’ America isn’t owned by a single person—it belongs to everyone.”
He continued, “Right now—at a time when core democratic values are under constant threat, and when global cynicism and apathy are widespread—this is exactly when we must reflect deeply on how to strengthen our democracies so they truly serve everyday people.”
Many interpreted the message as a veiled criticism of Trump and his policies.
Some praised Obama’s remarks as a much-needed voice of reason and inspiration during a troubling political moment.
One person responded, “I’m trying to celebrate today, but it’s hard knowing how many millions will be stripped of critical support because of this bill. That line—‘America is owned by no one. It belongs to all citizens.’—really hit home. Amen, sir.”
Another commented, “Thank you. Please keep sharing these encouraging words. I’ve never felt this level of despair before.”
