Mehdi Hasan on Donald Trump’s big, beautiful birthday – podcast

As the US prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary and Trump turns 80, what state is the country in? And its president?

This weekend kicks off an extravaganza of celebrations for the US, marking 250 years of independence from Britain – and for Donald Trump, marking 80 years of being, well, him.

Presidents gone-by would have used a milestone anniversary to promote national unity. Trump is organising a cage fight. The president is adamant that every decent, flag-waving American will enjoy the festivities … or at least be talking about the party rather than what he’s brought to it.