Protests, Trump’s angry words darken July 4 weekend

WASHINGTON: The United States is marking its Independence Day in a somber mood, as a record surge in coronavirus cases, widespread anti-racism protests and an angry speech from President Donald Trump have cast a shadow over what normally are festive celebrations. The Covid-19 pandemic prompted the closing of popular beaches — normally packed on the July 4 weekend — on both coasts, as California and Florida suffer alarming surges in virus cases. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti issued