It’s never too early to start planning, especially with the speed of federal bureaucracy.

The appointment of U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., to serve on the United States Semiquincentennial Commission is a privilege for the Granite State lawmaker. The commission has been tasked with facilitating nationwide plans heading into the 250th anniversary of the country and to provide recommendations to future presidents and lawmakers within two years of its formation.

"As one of the original 13 states, New Hampshire has a deep-seated history in American democracy, and it is with great privilege that I represent Granite Staters on this commission as we celebrate the success of our forefathers’ vision of freedom," Shaheen said Tuesday in a statement. She and the rest of the 32-member commission will conduct all meetings at Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

There are eight congressional members of the commission. Organizers say it is an opportunity for all Americans to engage in a shared project of national unity and to celebrate our heritage, regardless of political party.

Among the recommended activities for the commission are the production of books, pamphlets, films and other materials to focus on the history, culture and political thought during the American Revolution; conferences, lectures and other programs (especially those located in the 13 colonies); and the development of libraries, museums, and other historic sites and exhibits.

Furthermore, federal agencies are expected to integrate the semiquincentennial into the regular activities such as the issuance of coins, stamps and the naming of vessels.

Congratulations, Sen. Shaheen. We hope you bring New Hampshire’s rugged independence and generations of patriotic spirit to this commission so we may properly honor our nation in 2026.

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