Happy Independence Day, Arkansas

On Saturday, we will celebrate Independence Day, 244 years ago our Founding Fathers peacefully assembled in Philadelphia and drafted our Declaration of Independence. Their courage in the face of incredible odds still rings true today -- and just as loudly as it did on July 4, 1776.

Since that day, the United States has become a symbol of freedom, democracy, and honor. We continue to stand by those same core principles that were written so long ago: that all men and women are created equal, that we possess inherent unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

These past several months have not been easy. It’s been a challenging time in our country, especially when we cannot see those whom we love the most. But like all the challenges that we faced in the past, we will come through this better as one nation under God. We will be stronger for what lies waiting for us in the future.

Even though this Fourth of July will look a little different than past celebrations – more masks and no mass gatherings – nothing could stop us from celebrating our independence and our freedom. We’re still going to honor those who wear the uniform and defend everything that makes our country great. The promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness remains intact – no matter the obstacles we may face. The Declaration of Independence was written to define the principles on which our government, and our identity as Americans, is based.

The coronavirus – no matter how dangerous it may be – will never alter the fabric of what makes our nation great: faith, family, and freedom.

Happy Independence Day to everyone in Arkansas, and happy Independence Day to our great nation.

May God continue to Bless our beloved land.