The United States is preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday next Saturday, but according to columnist Raymond J. de Souza, the republic has diminished significantly since its bicentennial in 1976. Writing in the National Post, de Souza contrasts the graceful celebrations of 50 years ago, which included a state visit by Queen Elizabeth II, with the current political climate marked by division and scandal.
Vice presidents in the spotlight
De Souza notes that two former vice presidents—Mike Pence and JD Vance—have been making appearances at presidential libraries this week, promoting their books. Pence spoke at the Gerald Ford presidential museum in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Tuesday, while Vance appeared at the Nixon library in Yorba Linda, California, on Thursday. Both Ford and Nixon were vice presidents who became presidents, and de Souza suggests that Vance could plausibly follow that path, either by election or by succeeding Donald Trump if he is forced out of office.
A contrast in celebrations
The Ford museum is currently hosting an exhibition titled “Waltzing with the Queen,” recalling the 1976 bicentennial visit of Queen Elizabeth II. During that visit, she and President Ford danced a foxtrot in the White House, which became a symbol of the Anglo-American relationship. The Queen also presented Ford with a Bicentennial Bell, weighing six tons and inscribed “Let Freedom Ring.” De Souza notes that King Charles III, during his recent state visit for the semiquincentennial, also brought a bell, but the gesture lacks the same warmth.
Political divisions and diminished horizons
De Souza argues that the current political environment is marked by strange alliances and conflicts. Pence, Trump's first vice president, is now arguing against the big-government, protectionist policies promoted by Trump's second vice president, JD Vance. The columnist suggests that the 250th anniversary will be celebrated with a submarine bell and diminished horizons, a far cry from the optimism of 1976.
According to de Souza, the visits by Pence and Vance are a powerful indication that America has changed, and not for the better. He laments the loss of the grace and unity that characterized the bicentennial, replaced by a lesser republic facing internal strife and corruption.
