With President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House, we are on the brink of a new era of American exceptionalism. More than just a political catchphrase, the ideals of American exceptionalism are the underpinning of what makes America unique.

American exceptionalism is the bedrock of America’s founding principles. Adherence to natural law, the primacy of individual liberty, the wisdom of limited government, the safeguarding of individual rights, the effectiveness of checks and balances, the power of popular sovereignty, and the fundamental role of religion in society are all part of our founding creed.

America’s founders crafted a new nation that uniquely fused classical philosophy, Judeo-Christian values, and Enlightenment ideals into a new model of governance. A model that prioritized liberty, natural rights, and religious freedom. This synthesis made the American experiment not just novel but a beacon of hope that continues to shine across the globe.

What sets America apart is not merely the creed it espouses but how it lives out that creed. In turn, we can connect these enduring principles of American exceptionalism to the policies that define Trump’s vision. His commitment to restoring key pillars of American strength is evident in his promises to revitalize our economy, secure our borders, and restore pride in our national identity.

In terms of the economy, we anticipate a vigorous approach to tackling inflation — a direct boon to everyone’s pocketbook and a necessary step to secure economic liberty. We need new policies aimed at stimulating economic growth by reducing the bureaucracy and barriers that stifle entrepreneurship and innovation. This course serves the principle of limited government while empowering individuals to pursue the American dream.

Securing our borders is another cornerstone of American exceptionalism. A nation that cannot control its borders forfeits its sovereignty. We need to enforce immigration laws and the rule of law.

We must also ensure that the people have a direct say in their governance — echoing the foundational ideal of popular sovereignty. Rekindling pride in America is also a good thing. It speaks to the civilizing and unifying role of patriotism in our society. It is a clarion call to everyone to remember the values that unite us, regardless of what separates us. This sense of national pride is essential for sustaining the social fabric that holds our republic together.

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Trump 2.0 offers us a chance to demonstrate once again that American exceptionalism is not just some historical footnote but a living, breathing force that can lead to tangible and meaningful improvements in the lives of everyone.

And with those improvements, a brighter path forward for the nation as a whole. 

Robert Chernin serves as chairman of the American Center for Education and
Knowledge and the American Coalition.