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On Thursday, President Trump recognized the 183rd birthday of former President William McKinley with a special message. The president honored the 25th president by highlighting his military accomplishments, economic vision, and contributions to American strength.
“Today, we celebrate the birthday of the legendary President William McKinley—a true American trailblazer and titan of American greatness, who protected our people; expanded our blessings; and secured unprecedented growth, prosperity, and sovereignty for our beloved Nation,” President Trump said.
Trump highlighted President McKinley’s achievements that aligned with his own policy objectives, including his military strength during the Spanish-American War, his use of tariffs, and his advocacy for favorable trade policies.
“As Commander in Chief, President McKinley was a fierce advocate for American greatness and heroically led our country to victory in the Spanish-American War—advancing the blessings of freedom beyond our shores,” President Trump said. “He was also an unwavering champion for the American worker, and his historic use of tariffs fueled an economic boom that made our country stronger, wealthier, and more prosperous than ever before.”
President McKinley was originally elected in 1896 and re-elected in 1900. On September 5th, 1901, he was assassinated following a speech given in Buffalo, New York. In his tribute message, President Trump acknowledged McKinley’s tragic murder, calling him a martyr to American freedom.
Trump, upon returning to office, honored President McKinley by restoring the name of Mount McKinley through an executive order, reversing a 2015 action by President Barack Obama. President Trump emphasized President McKinley’s impact and described how McKinley’s legacy had inspired the goals of his own administration.
“Guided by his vision, my Administration is also reestablishing a trade policy that promotes American investment and productivity, enhances our Nation’s industrial and technological advantages, defends our economic and national security, and—above all—puts American workers, manufacturers, and industries first,” President Trump said. “On what would have been President McKinley’s 183rd birthday—and as we celebrate 250 years of American freedom and independence—we honor his memory, we remember his courage, and we renew our resolve to protect our workers, to reach further, aim higher, and achieve the full promise and glory of the American Dream.”