Trump’s Message To America
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, President Donald Trump delivered a patriotic message Wednesday, urging citizens to embrace the determination, courage, and optimism that helped build the United States.
Speaking at the dedication ceremony for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota, Trump said the nation should look to its 26th president as an example of leadership, perseverance, and unwavering belief in America’s future.
Addressing a large crowd at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre, Trump said the country is entering a historic moment and encouraged Americans to renew their commitment to the principles that made the United States the world’s leading nation.
“This is a time to rediscover the indomitable spirit that built our country,” Trump said. “That same spirit will keep America the most exceptional nation on Earth.”
Trump Praises Theodore Roosevelt’s Legacy
Throughout his remarks, Trump praised Theodore Roosevelt as one of America’s greatest presidents, describing him as a leader whose energy, patriotism, and bold vision helped transform the nation.
He said Roosevelt’s confidence, determination, and love for the United States continue to serve as an example for future generations.
Trump also noted that Roosevelt greatly admired President Abraham Lincoln and kept a portrait of the nation’s 16th president in one of the most important rooms of his home—a piece that is now displayed at the presidential library.
According to Trump, Roosevelt’s leadership helped establish America as one of the strongest and most respected nations in the world through bold decision-making and an unwavering commitment to national greatness.
Historic Arrival Marks Special Occasion
The North Dakota visit also marked the first official trip aboard a refurbished Air Force One aircraft that will serve temporarily while Boeing completes the next presidential jet, which is expected to enter service in 2028.
The aircraft features a new red, white, dark blue, and gold exterior selected by Trump.
After arriving, the president traveled to the library aboard a train decorated in patriotic red, white, and blue colors featuring a large “1776–2026” display celebrating America’s upcoming 250th birthday.
His motorcade was escorted by horseback riders dressed as Theodore Roosevelt’s famous Rough Riders, honoring the volunteer cavalry regiment Roosevelt led during the Spanish-American War.
The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is scheduled to officially open to the public on Saturday.
Five Lessons Trump Says Americans Should Remember
Trump said Roosevelt’s life offers important lessons that remain relevant today.
According to the president, Americans should:
- Never give up when facing challenges.
- Show courage in defending freedom.
- Reward hard work and merit instead of accepting failure.
- Think boldly and pursue ambitious goals.
- Remain united as Americans above political differences.
Trump emphasized that Roosevelt believed Americans should always put their country first, regardless of personal background or political affiliation.
“We’re Americans first,” Trump said while encouraging greater national unity and respect for the American flag.
Trump Criticizes Democrat Over American Flag Comment
During his speech, Trump also criticized New York congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier after reports resurfaced regarding a 2019 social media post in which she allegedly joked about wiping her hands on an American flag after forgetting napkins.
Trump argued that respecting the American flag remains an important symbol of national pride and unity.
Trump Reflects on the Panama Canal
Trump also spoke about Theodore Roosevelt’s role in constructing the Panama Canal, calling it one of the greatest engineering achievements in American history.
In a lighthearted moment, Trump joked that he imagined having a conversation with Roosevelt while touring the library and asked what he considered his greatest accomplishment.
The president criticized the decision made during President Jimmy Carter’s administration to transfer control of the canal to Panama under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties.
Trump argued that the canal represented one of the most valuable infrastructure projects ever completed by the United States and noted that thousands of Americans sacrificed during its construction.
He said Americans should take greater pride in the nation’s historic achievements and continue pursuing projects that strengthen the country’s future.
America 250 Celebration Gains Momentum
Trump concluded by encouraging Americans to look ahead to the nation’s 250th birthday with renewed confidence, patriotism, and optimism.
He said Theodore Roosevelt’s example demonstrates how strong leadership, courage, and belief in the American people can shape history and inspire future generations.
With the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opening this week and preparations underway for America’s semiquincentennial celebration, Trump said the country has an opportunity to renew the values that helped make the United States one of the most influential nations in history.





