Dear fellow South Carolinians,

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration – fireworks lighting up the sky, cookouts with family, and thankfulness for our nation and our freedoms. It is a time that many Americans, including myself, look forward to each year. But even though some of our festivities will stay the same, America’s 244th birthday is undeniably different.

Many of our lives seemingly came to a halt as the COVID-19 pandemic swept the country. In the midst of this challenge, we suffered together as some of the injustices facing our American brothers and sisters were broadcasted right before our eyes. Many are still hurting, but as we grieve together over the lives lost and the struggles still facing our nation, we should also reflect on the progress that we have made on the path towards a more perfect union.

From the hundreds of thousands of service members to the courageous private citizens like Dr. King who gave their lives in pursuit of liberty and justice for all, we have much to be thankful for and proud of - today and every day.

On July 4, 1776, our nation’s founders put their lives on the line to declare that the United States would be its own nation – one in which “all men are created equal” and hold God-given rights that no man can take away.

Though we are not perfect, together we will continue striving to uphold that declaration each day. Our country is resilient and its people are strong; when we stand united, there is nothing this nation cannot achieve.

This Independence Day weekend, as you enjoy time with family, please remember to be safe, wear a mask, and greet your fellow Americans from six feet away! And to read my July 4th op-ed on FOX News, click here.

As the song says: there ain’t no doubt I love this land. God bless the USA.

Sincerely,

 
Tim