FCC’s Carr Announces Pledge America Campaign

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has launched the Pledge America Campaign, calling on the nation’s broadcasters to support the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence with patriotic and civic-focused programming.

The initiative aligns with the White House’s Salute to America 250 Task Force, established by President Donald J. Trump to coordinate a yearlong celebration culminating on July 4, 2026. Festivities are set to begin Memorial Day 2025 and continue through the semiquincentennial.

Carr said the Pledge America Campaign encourages broadcasters to air content that promotes civic education, national pride and American history in support of the anniversary. He noted that broadcasters, consistent with their public interest obligations, are positioned to provide programming responsive to the needs and interests of their local communities.

In a statement, Carr said the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence offers an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s founding principles and its history. He cited concerns about declining civics education and suggested broadcasters could help address the issue through locally tailored programming.

Examples outlined by the FCC include running public service announcements or specials focused on civic education and American history; highlighting local historic sites during news programming; beginning the broadcast day with the national anthem or Pledge of Allegiance; airing music by composers such as John Philip Sousa, Aaron Copland, Duke Ellington and George Gershwin; offering daily “Today in American History” features; and partnering with community organizations engaged in related efforts.

Participation in the Pledge America Campaign is voluntary. Broadcasters may indicate their commitment and highlight relevant programming to their audiences as part of the nationwide observance leading up to America’s 250th birthday in 2026.