America's 250th: A Nation Divided Between Pride and Indifference

Eight in ten Americans believe the signers of the Declaration of Independence would be disappointed with the current state of the nation. Only two in ten think they would be pleased. This marks a significant drop from 1999 when 55% felt the signers would be disappointed.

Duane Mitchell, a 78-year-old veteran from Montana, is revving up for the 250th anniversary with his restored 1954 Chevrolet pickup, decked out in red, white, and blue. He plans to parade through local Fourth of July celebrations, embodying a spirit of patriotism that resonates with many.

“I’ll be driving my pickup,” Mitchell stated, detailing his role in the parades. “Usually we freeze a whole bunch of candy, and I have a couple of kids from down the block who get in the back and throw candy out. Everybody loves it.”

According to a recent survey, about four in ten U.S. adults express pride regarding the upcoming milestone. Roughly three in ten say “excited” describes their emotions. President Donald Trump has planned several events in the nation’s capital, including a fair on Washington’s National Mall.

However, many Americans feel indifferent or conflicted about celebrating. Gallup polling indicates that most believe the signers would be disappointed with how the U.S. has turned out, a notable increase from 25 years ago.

Among Republicans, pride and excitement dominate feelings about the anniversary. Approximately seven in ten Republicans report feeling proud, while only about three in ten independents and roughly two in ten Democrats share that sentiment.

Older Americans, particularly those aged 60 and older, predominantly feel proud, with around six in ten expressing this sentiment regarding the nation’s anniversary.

Mitchell emphasizes the importance of remembering those who sacrificed their lives for freedom. As a Vietnam War veteran drafted into service, he insists that Americans should celebrate to the maximum. “The most important thing about the celebration is understanding that freedom is not free,” he said.

About half of Republicans, specifically 54%, report feeling excited about the country’s anniversary. In contrast, more Democrats and young people express feelings of being conflicted or indifferent regarding America at 250.

Approximately four in ten Democrats and around three in ten adults under 30 say “conflicted” describes their feelings “extremely” or “very” well. About three in ten in both demographics feel “indifferent.”

Laura Davis, a 44-year-old progressive liberal from Chicago, critiques what she calls “American declarations of grandiosity.” She believes funds could be better allocated to help those in need rather than on extravagant displays like Trump's White House ballroom construction.

“It doesn't mean we can't celebrate the things that do make America a unique and in some ways exceptional place to be,” she remarked. “But I think it's more nuanced than that.”

Sydney Crispin, a 39-year-old Democrat from Maine, acknowledges the country’s remarkable foundation but feels conflicted by a decline in respectful discourse, which she sees as central to America's identity. She hopes communities can celebrate while also reflecting on areas needing improvement.

Just under half of U.S. adults, specifically 44%, plan to celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary by spending time with friends or family. About three in ten intend to watch coverage of America 250 events on television or social media.

More than half of adults aged 65 and older plan to celebrate with friends or family, while nearly half will watch event coverage on television or social media. Adults under 30 are more likely to say they are not planning to celebrate at all.

The Gallup-With Honor poll reveals that about two in ten U.S. adults plan to participate in neighborhood or community events, while approximately one in ten will attend an official America 250 event.

Lyle Nelson, a 67-year-old from Idaho, intends to stick to his tradition of watching the annual Macy’s firework show at home. He supports many of Trump’s actions and speculates on the president's feelings about being in office during this historic event.

“I wonder if he’s thankful that he gets to be president during the 250th anniversary,” Nelson pondered. “I think he'll be excited for that.”