With the United States celebrating 250 years of its Independence, the celebrations come amid political polarisation in the country, debated over the America’s role in foreign disputes like Iran, and questions surrounding the priciples guiding the nation’s democratic setup. While supporters of President Donald Trump have argued that his second term has seen a renewal of the country’s ideals, critics say that America has never been so divided in the past.
In an exclusive interview with Times Now Digital, Richie Greenberg, a former Republican candidate for Mayor of San Francisco and a California-based political commentator discusses what US at 250 represents, the challenges the nation faces amid America’s involvement in conflicts abroad, and the future of US-India ties. Excerpts:
Q. The United States is celebrating 250 years of independence. Has the idea of what it means to be American fundamentally changed over those two and a half centuries?
A. The meaning of being American remains unchanged at its core: a belief in individual liberty, self-reliance, and the pursuit of happiness under the Constitution that has made us rise as the greatest nation on Earth. As we celebrate 250 years, President Trump’s leadership is reminding us that America’s exceptionalism thrives when we reject division and recommit to the principles that built the most prosperous and free society in history.
Q. What do you think historians will see as the defining story of America at its 250th year?
A. Future historians will view this moment as America’s great renewal, a time when President Trump and the GOP restored national strength, border security, and economic dominance after years of weakness, proving once again that American democracy is resilient and that conservative leadership lifts the entire world.
Q. Critics argue that trust in institutions, elections and even basic facts has eroded significantly in recent years. Do you accept it?
A. No, modern America is being defined by President Trump’s decisive restoration of trust in our institutions, fair elections, and common-sense truths against elite media spin and bureaucratic overreach. Under his administration, we’re seeing a powerful return to accountability, patriotism, and results that put American workers and families first.
Q: From South America, to Iran, the United States has seen itself involved in foreign countries. Is this the long-term direction of American foreign policy?
A. Yes, these engagements embody America’s timeless role as the indispensable leader promoting peace through strength, deterring aggression, and advancing freedom worldwide. With Trump at the helm, the U.S. is once again projecting confidence and stability so allies can thrive and adversaries think twice.
Q. At the same time, several countries are seeking to reduce their dependence on Washington. Does that mean that American influence is beginning to decline?
A. Not at all, nations seeking alternatives still depend on American innovation, military protection, markets, and the dollar because no other country can match our unmatched power and prosperity. America’s influence is surging under Trump’s America First policies that command respect and deliver results.
Q. Turning to India, ties between Washington and New Delhi have grown closer in recent years, but they have also seen disagreements over trade, tariffs and foreign policy. What do you think about the future of the ties?
A. The US-India partnership is exceptionally resilient, rooted in shared democratic values, booming trade, and mutual strategic interests against common threats. President Trump’s leadership has strengthened this vital friendship, turning differences into opportunities for even deeper cooperation that benefits both nations and advances freedom in the Indo-Pacific.
Q. Finally, as America enters its next quarter millennium, what do you believe will be the single biggest challenge confronting the United States?
A. Experts will say the defining challenge in 2026 is sustaining the momentum of Trump’s conservative resurgence: securing borders, unleashing energy dominance, and defeating radical ideologies at home while leading the free world abroad. With America’s enduring spirit and GOP vision, we will meet it head-on and emerge stronger than ever.