One year after taking office, President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation marking January 20, 2026, as the National Day of Patriotic Devotion. The proclamation reflects on the administration’s actions over the past year and sets out goals for the future.
In his statement, President Trump said: "One year ago today, I stood in the majestic rotunda of our Nation’s Capitol and pledged to the American people that we would reclaim our national sovereignty, restore our safety, rebalance the scales of justice, and rebuild a country that is proud, prosperous, and free. Over the last 12 months, my Administration has swiftly delivered on these promises in epic fashion, ushering in a new era of peace, prosperity, and strength, and reclaiming the values and way of life that have made our Republic the envy of the world for 250 years. On this National Day of Patriotic Devotion, we unite as one people to honor our most sacred American ideals, celebrate our victories, and reaffirm our solemn mission to make our country greater than ever before."
President Trump described challenges faced when he took office. He said: "When I took office 1 year ago, our country was in a state of chaos and decline. Our borders were wide open, allowing criminals, drug dealers, and violent gang members to pour in and poison our communities. Crime was surging, law enforcement was under siege, and Christians, conservatives, and other innocent Americans were being viciously persecuted. Inflation was crushing families, wages were stagnant, and the cost of living was out of control. American democracy had been undermined by lawlessness, government abuse, and a collapse of accountability at the highest levels. Men were competing in women’s sports and invading women’s locker rooms. Extremist left-wing ideologies were being forced into classrooms. The worst trade deals in our history had hollowed out American industry, and our leaders were undermining our strength on the world stage."
He highlighted border security measures taken during his administration: "On day one, I immediately began working to fight for the law-abiding, hardworking men and women who built our Nation… One of my most urgent duties was to confront the worst border crisis in American history… In just a few short months… Illegal border crossings over the year have plummeted by 92 percent..."
The proclamation also mentions efforts to improve economic conditions through executive actions aimed at lowering regulatory burdens and reducing inflation: "I have also spared no time in rebuilding our economy... As a result [of administration actions], inflation is down 70 percent from its peak rate during the previous administration..."
The document outlines legislative achievements such as passing what is called “the historic One Big Beautiful Bill,” which includes tax cuts made permanent along with other economic measures.
On foreign policy matters President Trump stated: "I have also moved swiftly to reassert American strength on the world stage... Guided by a foreign policy of peace through strength... my Administration has already secured major peace agreements between nations torn by decades of fighting — including in the Middle East..."
Trump emphasized restoring what he describes as enduring American values: "As President... Equal justice under the law… freedom of speech… merit over... ‘DEI’ agenda… reverence for our heritage..."
Concluding his remarks about January 20th’s significance: "January 20, 2025 will forever be remembered as the day our Nation was restored to its full greatness and glory..."
Finally President Trump proclaimed January 20th as National Day of Patriotic Devotion with these words: "NOW THEREFORE I DONALD J TRUMP President... do hereby proclaim January 20 2026 as National Day of Patriotic Devotion in order to strengthen our bonds to each other..."
