DES MOINES, Iowa — President Donald Trump is set to launch celebrations for the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence, kicking off a yearlong series of events with a gathering at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The festivities, featuring a blend of patriotic displays, musical performances, and fireworks, are designed to foster unity in a deeply divided nation.
U.S. Ambassador Monica Crowley, who serves as the liaison to the organizing committee known as America250, expressed optimism about the event’s potential to bring Americans together. Amid a backdrop of political polarization, Crowley noted that the choice of Iowa for the celebration is symbolic, emphasizing both its central location and Trump’s positive rapport with the state, which has historically supported him.
“This is an opportunity to celebrate our shared values and civic pride,” Crowley stated. She added that doing so in the nation’s heartland signifies a commitment to reconciliation amidst ongoing social fragmentation. According to a recent Gallup poll, current levels of patriotism exhibit the widest partisan divide in two decades, with only a third of Democrats expressing pride in their nationality compared to nearly 90% of Republicans.
As the Republican-controlled Congress pushes for an extensive tax cuts and spending package, the inaugural event arrives in a politically charged atmosphere, with a majority of U.S. adults disapproving of Trump’s job performance. A June AP-NORC poll indicated that only about 40% of Americans approve of the president, while a significant portion believes that a military parade, part of the planned anniversary events, is not an appropriate use of taxpayer funds.
Looking back to 1976, Crowley drew parallels between that celebratory year and the current moment, recalling the national turmoil following the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. She emphasized that the bicentennial celebrations played a crucial role in uniting the country and expressed hope that the upcoming anniversary would have a similar effect.
On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted, marking the 13 colonies’ break from British rule. Trump’s remarks about the upcoming 250th birthday celebration echo this historic significance. “We’re gonna have a big, big celebration,” he said recently during a Memorial Day address. His earlier proposal for a “Great American State Fair” in Iowa has now come to fruition with this kickoff event, drawing promises of support from state officials, including Republican Governor Kim Reynolds.
The evening’s entertainment will feature notable performances, including Lee Greenwood, whose song “God Bless the USA” has become synonymous with Trump rallies. Moreover, the event will also host prominent figures, such as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
With these celebrations poised to commence, many are asking if they can truly bridge the stubborn divides within American society. The upcoming year of festivities offers a canvas for citizens to reflect on the nation’s history while contemplating its future.