America 250: Presidential Message on the Birthday of President Andrew Jackson

Today, our Nation celebrates the birthday of President Andrew Jackson-a champion for the common man, a stalwart against political corruption, and a fierce defender of republican self-government.

Andrew Jackson's challenging childhood forged the fierce and independent spirit that defined his life. From a young age, he endured unthinkable tragedy. His father died just weeks before his birth, and the raging Revolutionary War claimed the lives of his mother and two brothers by his early teens. Driven by a thirst for revenge, he voluntarily joined the Continental Army in South Carolina to secure America's independence at age 13. During his service, he was captured by the British and forced to endure horrific conditions as a prisoner of war. These early trials instilled the resilience and warrior mentality that would go on to define his career.

Jackson's bravery and honorable service grew even stronger during the War of 1812, when he commanded U.S. forces to victory in the epic Battle of New Orleans, solidifying his reputation as a national hero. Nearly a decade later, after failing to secure the Presidency in the corrupt election of 1824, Jackson staged an unthinkable political comeback, withstanding vicious attacks from his enemies to defeat President John Quincy Adams in an electoral landslide in 1828.

As the 7th President of the United States, Jackson imposed tariffs to protect our workers and secure our sovereignty; fearlessly took on the Washington, D.C., establishment; and removed power from the hands of corrupt elites and returned it to where it belongs: with the American people. His Presidency was fueled by an immense love of country and an unrelenting commitment to putting America first.

Today, my Administration is proudly advancing the vision championed by President Jackson. We are promoting a trade policy that has secured unprecedented investment in our economy and protects our workers, industries, and manufacturers from foreign exploitation. We are restoring accountability and efficiency to Washington by tackling waste, fraud, and abuse and ensuring the United States Government is truly of, by, and for the people. We will never waver in our defense of our citizens, our sovereignty, and our homeland.

As we commemorate the birthday of our 7th Commander in Chief-and as we celebrate 250 glorious years of American independence-we honor the memory of one of the most consequential leaders in American history. On what would have been his 259th birthday, we commit to furthering President Jackson's legacy, expanding his vision, honoring his memory, and restoring the full might of the American promise for many years to come.