NEWS & OPINION
There’s some dismal news this Fourth of July: 85% of U.S. adults now say the country is on the wrong track, and 79% describe the economy as poor, according to a new survey from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.
” The national dissatisfaction was bipartisan, the poll analysis stated. Noting that 92% of Republicans and 78% of Democrats agree the country is headed in the wrong direction,” AP said of its poll of 1,053 U.S. adults, conducted June 23-27.
Maybe it is time to reassess the wisdom of the former President Ronald Reagan .
Here’s what the 40th president said in a speech delivered from the deck of an aircraft carrier in New York Harbor, on July 4, 1986:
” The things that unify us — America’s history of which we are so proud, and our hopes for the future and dreams of this country and the world — these things outweigh anything that divides us,” Reagan stated to the nation.
” Tonight, we reaffirm Jew and Gentile, that we are one country under God. That black and white are one nation indivisible. And that Republican and Democrat are Americans. The president stated that tonight, in spite of all the trials and difficulties, we will stand by each other for the cause human freedom. This is the cause that has brought light and hope to this country and the rest of the world.
” American friends, you are known all over the globe as confident and happy Americans. There are many reasons to celebrate tonight and so many blessings that we can be thankful for. While it is important to discuss serious issues, having fun is just as important as being serious. Reagan suggested, “Now let’s celebrate!
WHAT DONNALD TRUMP HAD to SAY
The 45th president also had a thought or two for Americans about Independence Day.
” Tonight is the historic day in history for nations: July 4, 1776. Every American’s heart should rise with pride at those words. Each American family should shout with delight and each American patriot should feel joy. Former President Donald Trump addressed the nation from Mount Rushmore, July 3 2020..
Also, Mr. Trump’s July 4th message 2014, was an actual tweet. “Happy Fourth of July to all, even the losers and haters!” Mr. Trump suggested then.
His fourth of July tweets throughout the years prompted The Washington Post, on July 5, 2017. to publish an in-depth study titled “The Evolution of Donald Trump as seen through his Fourth of July Tweets.”
THE FIRST
Yes. There was an original Independence Day celebration held at the White House in those days. The White House Historical Association provides some insights into the major happenings.
“Although John Adams became the first president of the Executive Mansion in November 1800,, it was Thomas Jefferson that first observed the Fourth July at the White House. 1801. Jefferson officially opened the House and welcomed diplomats, military and civil officers as well as citizens and Cherokee chiefs to the centre of the oval saloon, today’s Blue Room. In the entry hall, the U.S. Marine Band performed, while on the northern grounds, a festival was held, complete with horse races and parades and food and drinks. The tradition of an annual reception at the White House continued for much of the 19th century,” notes a historical report from the aforementioned organization.
” The President’s Park’s north lawns — also known as the “common” — were alive from dawn with tents being raised and booths being set up. Soon, there was a crowd of people. The day was marked by a festival. All types of food and drinks were available for purchase. Horse races, cockfights, and parades by the militia and other companies were all part of this event. The White House steps were occupied by Jefferson, a bareheaded man with his “grey hair waving in air”, as he watched. “Then, he invited everybody in to share his hospitality and express gratitude for the preservation independence,” said the report.
It also mentioned a July 5th, 1801, letter from a certain “Mrs. Smith ” her sister Mary Ann , in which she described the cake, wine and punch that were served to all citizens as they played “The President’s March” (and other patriotic tunes), Mrs. Smith said.
All attendees were “appeared cheerful and all seemed happy,” she stated.
TIME TIME MARCHES ON
“Fireworks is not the only thing that’s exploding on this holiday. Prices are also soaring faster than any bottle rocket. President Biden ‘s reckless agenda makes it harder for Americans to enjoy their Independence Day with friends and family. In a statement that was shared with Inside the Beltway, the Republican National Committee Chair Ronna MacDaniel stated that the American dream has been slipping away due to this agenda.
She used a Wall Street Journal survey as evidence. And the numbers: 67% of U.S. adults are “generally pessimistic” about our system of government and how well it works; 66% are pessimistic about the way our leaders are chosen under our political system.
Another 61% express pessimism about the opportunity for most people to achieve the American dream while 60% feel pessimistic about America’s role as “a global leader” in the world.
The Wall Street Journal/NORC poll of 1,001 U.S. adults was conducted May 9-17 and released June 6.
POLL D’HOME
84% of U.S. adults will celebrate the Fourth of July on Monday; 16% will not celebrate.
59% of the former group will attend barbecue or cookout.
37% will watch public fireworks or attend a community celebration.
18% will be involved in some “other” activity.
13% will be traveling or on vacation; 10% will attend a parade.
57% say they own an American flag.
SOURCE: A National Retail Federation survey of 8,210 U.S. adults conducted June 2-8; multiple responses were allowed.
We wish you a happy Fourth of July and thanks for visiting Inside the Beltway.
