Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D-MD) delivered an Independence Day address Saturday warning that patriotism is not interchangeable with nationalism [1].
The speech comes during the semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since the founding of the United States [2]. Moore positioned his remarks as a unifying alternative to the "America 250" celebrations led by President Trump, framing the event as a counter-program to those federal festivities [3].
Speaking from the Maryland State House in Annapolis, Moore titled his address “The Work of Patriotism” [4]. He argued that the act of loving one's country requires a commitment to unity rather than ideological purity or division [5].
"Patriotism is not interchangeable with nationalism," Moore said [6].
Throughout the address, Moore emphasized that the current milestone of the nation's 250th anniversary should serve as a moment for reflection on the collective American identity [7]. He suggested that true patriotism involves an ongoing effort to improve the country for all citizens, a process he described as a distinct form of labor [8].
"We’re celebrating the work of patriotism, not the work of division," Moore said [9].
The governor's choice of venue and timing served to highlight a philosophical divide regarding the interpretation of American history and national identity during the semiquincentennial year [10]. By explicitly distancing patriotism from nationalism, Moore sought to provide a narrative that emphasizes civic duty and inclusivity over the more assertive nationalist rhetoric associated with the current administration's celebrations [11].
“"Patriotism is not interchangeable with nationalism."”
Governor Moore's address signals a strategic effort by high-profile Democratic leaders to reclaim the concept of patriotism during the U.S. semiquincentennial. By framing the 250th anniversary as a time for 'work' and unity rather than nationalist celebration, Moore is attempting to create a political alternative to the Trump administration's narrative of American identity.
