Hello, Friends —

Tomorrow is Independence Day, when we celebrate the founding of the United States of America, the world’s greatest experiment in self-government, liberty, and justice. 

Click to Play!

The words of the Declaration of Independence are no less shocking and no less radical today than when they were drafted in 1776:

We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed, by their CREATOR, with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

These are revolutionary words, which raise profound philosophical questions about the purpose and the composition of government.

To take the “self-evident” truths defined in the Declaration, transform them into law (the Constitution), then create an entire system of government upon that foundation, was a monumental and brilliant achievement. 

Our constitutional republic is precious, and we all must take pains to preserve it.

It is worth taking a break from the festivities of Independence Day, even for just a few moments, to think about what America means. Let us also take a moment to reflect on the courage, bravery, and sacrifice of the men and women who defend and protect our nation.

One such hero was SFC Allen C. Johnson, killed in action on April 26, 2005 in Khanaqin, Afghanistan. This week, the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) 4th Battalion dedicated their building in honor of SFC Johnson. 

Heroes like SFC Johnson have made the ultimate sacrifice to safeguard our freedom. We are truly grateful, and we must never take their sacrifices, our freedom, or our nation, for granted.

I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful Independence Day!

Sincerely, 

Matt Gaetz