Archive · 21 Jan 2026
US Ambassador Faces Backlash Over July 4 Fundraising
The US Ambassador to Singapore, Anjani Sinha, asked businesses to give more money than usual for the July 4 celebrations.
This is because it's a special year: the US is celebrating 250 years of independence, and the US and Singapore are celebrating 60 years of being friends.
Some people are upset because they think the request is too much.
The embassy says this is normal and happens every year.
The celebrations are a big deal, and the embassy wants businesses to help make it special.
US Ambassador Anjani Sinha requested 'substantially larger' financial contributions for July 4 celebrations in Singapore.
The request was made in a letter to members of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Singapore.
The celebrations mark the 250th anniversary of US independence and the 60th anniversary of US-Singapore diplomatic ties.
The embassy described the event as a 'momentous occasion' and a 'major' White House priority.
The request has faced criticism, but the embassy stated it is a routine part of annual diplomatic activities.
- Who
- US Ambassador to Singapore, Anjani Sinha
- What
- Request for substantially larger financial contributions for July 4 celebrations
- When
- Letter sent on January 8, response on January 20
- Where
- Singapore
- Why
- To celebrate the 250th anniversary of US independence and the 60th anniversary of US-Singapore diplomatic ties
- Ambassador
- Anjani Sinha
- Event
- July 4 celebrations
- Milestones
- 250th anniversary of US independence and 60th anniversary of US-Singapore diplomatic ties
- Request Recipients
- Members of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Singapore
- AmCham Membership
- Over 6,000 members across 650+ companies
- Date of Letter
- January 8
- Embassy Response Date
- January 20