Under fireworks: What American cities say at the age of 250 (opens original article in a new tab)

As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, despite planned fireworks displays, many Americans question the nation's progress, with housing affordability, infrastructure, and youth trust in the system at critical levels.

• Only 25% of Americans believe their country is the best
• Trump's 'Freedom Cities' plan has not progressed since 2023
• 22.7 million renter households spend over 30% of income on housing
• ASCE gave U.S. infrastructure a 'C' grade in 2025