16 Local Voices on 250 Years of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
We asked a host of Wisconsin voices, from fourth-graders to the governor, to reflect on America’s big birthday. Here’s how they see our democracy in 2026.
USA 250 – Julia Azari: Our Fragmentation of Political Power Is at Risk
The fundamental separation of powers that has held our system together for 250 years is in crisis.
USA 250 – Mario Constantini: I Love America, and I Fear for It
An immigrant from an authoritarian country laments our nation’s drift from the democratic ideals that make it such a beacon.
USA 250 – Mark Powless: America’s Republic Draws From Iroquois Confederacy
The U.S. founding fathers looked to a league of Indigenous nations for some of their foundational principles.
USA 250 – These Fourth-Graders Have Some Thoughts on Democracy
Maple Avenue Elementary teacher Erin Ridosko asked her students to share their thoughts on why democracy is important.
USA 250 – Tony Evers: The Next 250 Lie Within Us
The semiquincentennial is a reminder to Americans that our democracy is not a prophecy. We must work to execute it.
USA 250 – Katelyn Chandek: Democracy and Opportunity
A teen finds inspiration in her grandmother’s journey to America and the opportunity she found here.
USA 250 – Cavalier Johnson: Let Us Unite, America
This country was born of a sense of commonality, and it’s a powerful force in this country if we allow it to be.
USA 250 – Leah Vukmir: We Cannot Take Our Freedoms for Granted
A startling revelation from a visit to authoritarian Greece as a teenager leaves a lasting impression.
USA 250 – Josh Schoemann: Forge a More Perfect Union With Our Neighbors
Liberty is found in the balance between individual freedom and personal responsibility, and govnerment is our shared project to achieve it.