Is Biden Declaring ‘Independence From the Virus’ Too Soon?

Less than half the country is fully vaccinated against Covid-19, and the contagious Delta variant is spreading. Still, the White House is putting together an “America’s Back Together” celebration for July 4.

WASHINGTON — President Biden’s plan to celebrate “independence from the virus” on the Fourth of July is running into an unpleasant reality: Less than half the country is fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, and the highly contagious Delta variant is threatening new outbreaks. The president and Jill Biden, the first lady, have invited 1,000 military personnel and essential workers to an Independence Day bash on the South Lawn of the White House. Mr. Biden and his advisers, eager to claim credit for the virus’ retreat in the United States, are talking about a “summer of joy and freedom.” Mr. Biden will visit Traverse City, Mich., on Saturday as part of what the White House calls the “America’s Back Together” celebration. Dr. Biden will also take to the road, as will Vice President Kamala Harris, her husband, Doug Emhoff, and various cabinet officials who will attend festivals, parades and cookouts around the nation.