John, it’s Angus King,

While July 4th is a day for family and fireworks, it’s also a time to reflect on our history, our democracy, and the challenges that lie ahead. Above all, today reminds us that, regardless of political party, we are all Americans with an obligation to defend our democracy.

I often wear this tie (I’m holding it in the video above) when the Senate is in session. On it are the names of those who signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776.

We now recognize the Declaration of Independence as a fundamental document of the American revolution. But for many at the time, it posed a radical idea – that the people can govern themselves, that every individual has value, and that no one is above the law.

The signatories printed on my tie, such as Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin, didn’t just sign on their support for independence – they had signed their death warrants should it fail to be achieved. That’s the risk they were willing to accept for a freer, more democratic system.

Today, we are still working to realize the values laid out in the Declaration fully. As we continue that mission, we must also heed the warning of our forefathers – that democracy is never guaranteed. It takes bravery and integrity to uphold it, and it takes leadership to stand up to those who try to degrade it.

So John, as we fire up the grill and enjoy time with loved ones, let’s also continue to honor the progress made across these last 248 years, while never ceasing to strive for a more perfect union.

Happy 4th of July.

– Angus King