The Excerpt Thoughts on America's 250th birthday
Nov 3, 2025
Susan Page, the Washington Bureau Chief for USA TODAY and a seasoned journalist who has interviewed ten U.S. presidents, shares her thoughts on America’s impending 250th birthday. She explores how the nation's democratic journey has evolved and reflects on current political divisions compared to historical crises. Page discusses the resilience of the American spirit and the common traits she found among the presidents she's interviewed. She also touches on the erosion of trust in institutions and expresses cautious optimism for America’s future.
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America As A Continuing Journey
- Susan Page frames America's history as an ongoing journey of geographic and democratic expansion.
- Voting rights broadened from property-owning white men to a far more diverse leadership over 250 years.
Historical Strife Isn’t A New Pattern
- Susan Page reminds listeners that deep national crises are not new and have been survived before.
- She cites the Civil War, depression, world wars, and 9/11 as precedents for current partisan strain.
Nixon Seeking A New Audience
- Susan Page recounts a 1984 post-presidency meeting with Richard Nixon where he sought to influence a new generation of journalists.
- Nixon remained intent on shaping public debate despite Watergate defining his legacy.