Secretary McMahon addressed approximately 1,000 high school students at Turning Point USA’s Chapter Leadership Summit in Washington, DC, according to remarks prepared for delivery on July 10. She welcomed attendees and recognized their commitment to leadership, noting the significance of gathering in the nation’s capital following the 250th anniversary of America’s founding.
McMahon said she felt hope for the future as she looked at the students present. She stated, “All Americans enjoy our freedoms. But only some commit to understanding the sacrifices that secured them and the principles that sustain them. And an even smaller group devote their high‑school years to defending those principles at a moment when their generation needs their bravery most.” She acknowledged what she described as a challenge facing young Americans: “too many young Americans – especially your age – are not proud to be citizens of this exceptional country.” McMahon encouraged participants to actively engage in what she called “the battle of ideas” by leading chapters and taking part in discussions about American values.
She referenced Charlie, founder of Turning Point USA, highlighting his example as someone who embodied American values through hard work and self-education rather than formal credentials. According to her remarks, “Charlie was a relentless self-teacher and pursuer of truth, beauty, and wisdom… He proved that education takes many different forms, and that it’s a lifelong endeavor.” McMahon also said Charlie practiced freedom of speech by inviting opposing voices into dialogue during events.
McMahon urged students to carry forward these ideals by embodying them in daily life. She said they should “speak with courtesy; work with integrity; invite others to engage in dialogue; and in your clubs and classrooms, encourage your peers and help them use their gifts well.” The speech concluded with encouragement for students to show what it means to be an American through their actions.
The Chapter Leadership Summit is an annual event organized by Turning Point USA for student leaders from across the country.