The Republican candidates, minus Donald Trump, hit the trail to celebrate July 4th in several

key battleground states. We'll show you how the presidential contenders mark the holiday.

Plus, a federal judge orders the Biden administration to stop talking with social media companies.

What it means for the effort to tamp down misinformation about COVID and so much more.

And later, which of these things is not like the other?

Looks like the GOP needs to brush up on its social studies.

How its Twitter page mixed up the American flag.

Good morning and welcome to way too early on this Wednesday, July 5th. I'm Jonathan Lemire,

and thanks for starting your day with us. We certainly hope you had a happy and safe July 4th.

The White House celebrated America's independence yesterday with a barbecue, a concert,

and of course, plenty of fireworks. Returning from a weekend at Camp David, President Joe Biden addressed military members in the crowd,

whom he called the Protectors of Democracy.

You are the sinew, the backbone, the reality of why we're who we are.

Unbreaking, unbending, throughout our history, remind us that democracy is never, never, never

guaranteed. Every generation must fight to maintain it. We must always cherish it, defend it,

and strengthen it. Later in the night, the president switched to the role of MC

to introduce the night's final musical act,

where he was met with enthusiasm for his reelection bid.

Hey, everybody.

Welcome to your house, the White House.

We're just renting.

Think how music can change moods, music can make us feel better.

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