Representative Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) has raised concerns following a recent poll that indicates a historic low in the number of Americans expressing significant pride in their country.
During a recent address, Representative Hageman cited findings from Gallup’s 25-year patriotism survey, which revealed that a mere 17 percent of American adults—less than one in five—reported being “very proud” to be American last year.
She articulated that the collective enthusiasm for the nation has been “dimmed by accusations of an unacceptable morality” and that the country's “self-image tarnished by a novel self-flagellation.”
In her remarks, which are scheduled for delivery in the coming week, Hageman emphasized that the United States possesses a distinct cultural identity that warrants preservation. She urged citizens to rediscover their appreciation for this identity as the nation approaches its 250th Independence Day.
“We must stop pretending that America is just an idea, or that we have no shared culture worth fighting for,” Hageman asserted. She clarified that this stance does not imply a rejection of other cultures, noting America's historical openness to people globally. However, she contended that welcoming newcomers “does not obligate us to subjugate our American history, culture and traditions for theirs. We instead welcome them here to partake in and succeed in the American way of life.”
Partisan Trends in National Pride
The 2023 Gallup results showed a notable partisan divergence in national pride. Only 36% of Democrats indicated they were “very proud” of the U.S., a significant decrease from 62% recorded the previous year.
In contrast, Republicans reported much higher levels of pride, with 92 percent of respondents expressing strong national pride. Independents also reached a new low, with only 53% stating they were very proud, marking a seven-point reduction from the prior year.
Reinterpreting American History
Hageman suggested that these findings reflect the prevailing sentiments within the Democratic Party and ongoing attempts to reinterpret the country's foundational history.
“My friends on the other side of the aisle have worked mightily to weaponize our history with slavery to indict our nation as irredeemable,” Hageman declared.
She specifically referenced the “1619 Project,” stating, “Today, the left reveres 1619 as the year of America’s true founding. The year the first slaves were imported to America has become the defining moment for a new generation of cultural revolutionaries hellbent to tear our society apart.”
A Path to Renewed Patriotism
Despite the concerning data, Hageman expressed optimism that this trend is reversible. She believes a renewed sense of patriotism can be cultivated through a concentrated focus on the nation's origins.
“I hope that by focusing on America’s 250th anniversary – and looking back over that history with honesty and accuracy — we will reverse these declines,” Hageman stated.
She concluded with a hopeful outlook: “I am, in fact, optimistic that those festivities we’ve already enjoyed are currently inspiring a new sense of purpose in our national identity. And I believe we are on the right track to making America proud again.”