As the United States marks its 250th anniversary this Independence Day, Americans are expressing a diverse range of feelings about the milestone. While many are eager to celebrate, others approach the occasion with ambivalence or critique, reflecting the nation’s complex social and political climate.

In Montana, 78-year-old Vietnam War veteran Duane Mitchell plans to participate in local parades driving his restored 1954 Chevrolet pickup decorated with American flags and a patriotic eagle. Mitchell, who was drafted into service, views the anniversary as a time to honor those who sacrificed to protect the country's freedoms. “Freedom is not free, and it never will be free, so you need to celebrate that,” he said.

A recent survey by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that about 40% of U.S. adults describe feeling “proud” of the country on its 250th birthday. Approximately 30% say they feel “excited.” These sentiments skew strongly among Republicans, with roughly 70% expressing pride and 54% reporting excitement. Older Americans, particularly those over 60, also tend to feel proud of the nation’s legacy. Gallup polling similarly finds that a majority across political affiliations believe the United States has succeeded “a great deal” or “a fair amount” in achieving its founding ideals, with Republicans especially optimistic.

However, feelings among Democrats and younger Americans are more conflicted. Roughly 40% of Democrats and 30% of adults under 30 describe their emotions as “conflicted,” with another 30% in both groups reporting indifference. Chicago resident Laura Davis, 44, identifies as a progressive liberal and voices concern over the administration’s priorities, including high-spending on celebratory projects and policies she believes harm the country’s reputation. “It’s more nuanced than that,” she said, urging a balanced perspective that recognizes America’s strengths and shortcomings.

Gallup polling also shows a notable shift in how Americans view the founders’ likely perspective on the country's current state. About 80% say the signers of the Declaration of Independence would be disappointed with how the nation has evolved, a significant increase from 55% in 1999. Only about 20% believe the founders would be pleased. Sydney Crispin, a 39-year-old Democrat in Maine, appreciates the country’s foundational principles but worries about deteriorating civil discourse, suggesting that celebrations could serve as moments for both recognition and reflection.

Regarding observance plans, nearly half of U.S. adults intend to spend the holiday with friends or family. About 30% plan to watch anniversary events on television or social media. Older adults are more likely to engage in these traditional celebrations, while younger adults are less inclined to participate. A smaller portion of the population, about 20%, plans to join neighborhood or community events, and approximately 10% will attend official America 250 events.

Idaho resident Lyle Nelson, 67, said he will maintain his tradition of watching the annual Macy’s fireworks show at home and noted that President Donald Trump, who had planned a fair on the National Mall, might feel pride hosting the White House during this significant anniversary despite his previous electoral defeat.

The public sentiment reflects a nation both honoring its past and grappling with its present, illustrating the varied ways Americans connect with the country’s history as it reaches a quarter-millennium.