Biden says U.S. is close to "independence from a deadly virus"

President Joe Biden used his Fourth of July speech Sunday to declare that the U.S. is "closer than ever to declaring our independence from a deadly virus."

What he's saying: "This year, the Fourth of July is a day of special celebration," Biden said before a crowd of 1,000 essential workers and military families. "For we are emerging from the darkness of years. A year pandemic and isolation.

"A year of pain, fear, and heart-breaking loss. Just think back to where this nation was a year ago. Think back to where you were...