Do We Really Believe the Declaration?

The self-evident truths we celebrate every July should shape the leaders we choose every November.

This Fourth of July, I found myself thinking less about fireworks and more about responsibility.

The Greensboro News & Record was kind enough to publish this reflection, noting that beyond simply celebrating our founding ideals in the Declaration of Independence, we should demonstrate them in practice every Election Day.

Much of today’s political debate focuses on personalities, parties, and policies. I challenge readers to begin somewhere else—with the principles set forth in the Declaration of Independence. Whether you agree with my conclusions or not, I hope you’ll consider the question at the heart of the piece: If we truly believe these truths are self-evident, do they guide us when we enter the voting booth?

Editor’s Note: This essay was originally published in the Greensboro News & Record on July 5, 2026.