The Metro: ‘Do we want to continue this experiment?’ — why patriotism has declined, and how to change that
“That shared experience is enough,” says Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor about what patriotism looks like.
Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor in studio July 2, 2026.
This Saturday is the Fourth of July — and it’s a big one. Two hundred and fifty years since the Declaration of Independence.
In that time, this country has done extraordinary things. It has built one of the most diverse democracies on Earth, a haven where people can speak freely and chase a better life. And it’s done real harm: it took land by force, enslaved millions, broke treaties and lives.
So here’s the hard question this Fourth of July: What does it mean to love your country when you’re not sure it loves you back?
A new Gallup poll finds American pride at its lowest in 25 years. Only a third of Americans say they’re “extremely proud” to be American. And the partisan split is stark: 70% of Republicans, versus 14% of Democrats.
Michael Taylor is the mayor of Sterling Heights. He spoke with The Metro‘s Robyn about why it’s more important now than ever to unite.
Hear the full conversation using the media player above.
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