7/4/2026: Sounds of Liberty Remarks

Sounds of Liberty Remarks

There is something profound about hearing these words read aloud - together - by so many voices.

Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of people made an extraordinary bet: That freedom and self-governance were worth fighting for. That we could build something new and better together.

That bet is still being placed. Every single day.

I think about that responsibility constantly in my work as Governor. The people of Oregon have entrusted me to show up, to listen, to make hard decisions, and to always keep their wellbeing at the center of everything I do. I don't take that lightly.

America's 250th birthday is a moment to reflect on how far we've come - and to recommit ourselves to the work still ahead. Not as Republicans or Democrats, but as Americans. As Oregonians. As neighbors.

The Declaration of Independence wasn't the finish line. It was the starting gun.

So on this Fourth of July - let's celebrate what we've built. And let's recommit to building something even better.