WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., has been appointed to the United States Semiquincentennial Commission.
Capito was appointed to the body by Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.
As a commissioner, Capito will assist the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and America250.org in “orchestrating the largest, most inclusive commemoration and celebration in American history,” a press release states.
“I am honored to join the United States Semiquincentennial Commission,” Capito said. “As an educator and public servant, I’ve dedicated a significant portion of my life to teaching Americans about our founding, firmly believing that understanding where we come from is crucial to how we chart the course for our future.
“This appointment offers an opportunity to partner with organizations at the state and local level to include the efforts being planned in West Virginia, and work to celebrate our country.”
America250 is the official nonpartisan entity charged by Congress with planning the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“Sen. Capito brings a wealth of experience to America250, and as a commissioner, we are certain that she will bring her experience as an educator and her time as a public servant to bear for this effort,” said America250 Chair Rosie Rios.
“As we prepare to commemorate and celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, Senator Capito’s insight and leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that our celebrations honor our shared history and inspire a unified, hopeful vision for all Americans.”
The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress in 2016 to plan and orchestrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Commission comprises 16 private citizens, four U.S. representatives, four U.S. senators, and 12 ex-officio members from all three branches of the federal government and its independent agencies, each of whom were appointed by House and Senate leadership of both parties.
In July of 2023, America250 launched America’s Invitation, a national public engagement campaign inviting all Americans to share their stories, hopes and dreams for the future of this country. In December, America250 and local elected leaders participated in the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, launching a weekend of commemorative activities, including a live reenactment of the Boston Tea Party, which represents the first of many locally driven, grassroots events that America250 will support in partnership with states and territories across the country.
Until July 4, 2026, America250 is working to provide opportunities for all Americans to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans. To learn more, visit America250.org.