Sen. Cynthia Lummis Reflects on America’s 250th Anniversary

As America marks its 250th anniversary, Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) expressed her deep affection for her home state of Wyoming and the values enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. She highlighted the importance of people over government as the foundation of American strength.

“America is celebrating its 250th anniversary this year,” Lummis noted in a video. “When someone asks me what I love about this country, all I can do is smile. This is a great moment to be an American. I love this country, and I love Wyoming.”

She described the breathtaking landscape of her state, mentioning the “wide open sky that stretches on forever” and the clear nights “where you can see every single star.” Lummis also cherishes “the long summer nights of sitting outside, knowing the sun isn’t going anywhere for a while.”

Lummis emphasized Wyoming’s communal spirit, explaining that in difficult times, people come together without needing formal meetings. “When someone’s fence breaks down or there’s a snowstorm, people just show up,” she remarked. “That’s America to me.” This sense of community runs deep in her state, even amidst challenges.

The senator pointed out Wyoming’s rodeo culture as a testament to American resilience. “Our rodeos are very special in sound and grit,” she said, highlighting the raw energy of cowboys holding on for dear life on bucking horses or bulls.

“That’s the very American spirit,” Lummis added, referencing how unique symbols like horses and riders running the wrong way appear on Wyoming license plates.

As the nation celebrates its quarter-millennium, Lummis declared her admiration for the Declaration of Independence, calling it “based on the idea that we are all born with equal God-given rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” She underscored that this document emphasizes the power of the people over the government.

“My office features a giant copy of the Declaration on the wall for all visitors to see,” she mentioned. “I also see it every day when I sit at my desk as a reminder of who I work for.” Lummis considers it a vital touchstone, especially in Washington, where the connection to the constituency can easily be overlooked.

She stated the Declaration serves as a daily reminder that America was established not by a government, but by individuals willing to fight for their freedom. “The government has the consent of the governed,” she explained, highlighting that this principle is essential to understanding American freedom.

Lummis reiterated that the founders aimed to escape tyranny, not recreate it. “When we guard that principle, we protect everything you value: your land, your community, your way of life,” she said, emphasizing its significance as the country heads toward its 500th anniversary.

She wishes for every American and every family in Wyoming to appreciate what makes the country remarkable and worth fighting for. “This is the greatest country in the world, and none of it would be possible without the men and women who wear the uniform and answer the call to serve,” Lummis remarked.

In honor of service members, she stated, “We owe them a debt that can never be fully repaid, but as long as we remember their sacrifice, we will honor this nation’s promise.”

Concluding her tribute, Lummis expressed her love for Wyoming and the United States, saying, “God bless my beloved state of Wyoming, and God bless the United States of America. Congratulations on the 250th anniversary of American independence.”