New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani delivered a speech on July 3, 2026, to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary. He spoke live from behind George Washington’s desk at New York City Hall at 10 a.m., surrounded by recently naturalized citizens [1, 2, 3].

Mamdani, a naturalized US citizen born in Uganda, used the speech to emphasize immigration as central to America’s identity. He criticized exclusionary immigration policies, implicitly opposing views held during the Trump administration. He said, “America, if you ask them, becomes less the more people it welcomes. America, they will tell you, belongs only to those with the right accent or the right shade of skin. The rest of us, they insist, should be grateful for merely being allowed to visit” [1, 2].

He also acknowledged the country’s contradictions and ongoing struggles, stating patriotism means recognizing and fighting for America’s ideals. Mamdani said anniversaries of this scale "are not just invitations to reflect on the past but also a mirror" [1]. He further noted the long-held falsehood that those immigrating “have not sent its best” [3].

The speech came just hours before former President Donald Trump was scheduled to speak at Mount Rushmore on July 4, commemorating the 250th anniversary with traditional celebrations including fireworks, military bands, aviation flyovers, and a salute to the armed forces [1, 2]. Mamdani’s remarks followed a recent Supreme Court decision that rejected Trump’s effort to end birthright citizenship [1].

Mamdani’s address focused on unity and the evolution of New York since 1776, reflecting on America’s founding ideals [4]. Billionaire Bill Ackman criticized Mamdani for sitting on the “wrong side” of Washington’s desk and for attacking the country on a day of celebration. He said, “The best evidence that @NYCMayor Mamdani has not held a job is the fact that he is sitting on the wrong side of the desk... Mamdani and the Democratic Socialists are grave threats to our present and our future” [3].

Social media users disputed Ackman’s claim, explaining the desk is designed as a partner’s desk allowing seats on both sides [3].

Mamdani’s speech marked a key moment in the 250th anniversary observances in New York City and set a contrasting tone ahead of the July 4 events at Mount Rushmore.