President Trump urged Americans in his weekly address to defend, protect and promote the “birthright of freedom” ahead of the 230th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution.
“Let us recommit ourselves to our founding principles and rededicate ourselves to our glorious heritage. We have inherited a birthright of freedom. We must defend it dearly, protect it jealously, and promote it proudly as one nation under God,” Trump said in his weekly address, published Friday. “We must rise to the task of self-governance, prove worthy of the sacrifices made to carve out this magnificent nation, and we must give our loyalty to our republic and its citizens in all that we do.”
Sunday marks “Constitution Day,” and Trump praised the founders for creating a constitutional system that “protected our liberties by enshrining the rule of law.”
The president also reassured residents of states impacted by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma they can expect the federal government to continue assisting with recovery efforts, and offered prayers to those affected.
“From Texas to Louisiana to Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, we are coordinating closely with local authorities to help everyone impacted by these catastrophic storms,” Trump said. “When Americans are in need, America pulls together, and we will not rest until everyone is safe, sound and secure. We will be there tomorrow and the day after as we work to respond, recover and rebuild. When Americans are united, no force on earth can break us apart.”
Hurricane Harvey hit southeastern Texas late last month, bringing record rainfall and devastating flooding to Houston and parts of Harris County.
Hurricane Irma made landfall in the Florida Keys and Marco Island, Fla., over the weekend, devastating parts of southwest Florida and leaving millions without power.
