Editor, Gazette-Journal: George Washington’s first address to Congress was more than a celebration of a new nation—it was a checklist for keeping a free republic free. He pointed to unity, public trust, disciplined readiness, strong public credit, common standards, and an educated citizenry as essentials, not extras. Today, it feels like we’re drifting from that foundation. Washington spoke of growing “good will” toward our government. Now distrust is treated as normal, and politics rewards outrage more than responsibility. He argued that preparedness preserves peace, but too often we confuse strength with constant conflict—at home and abroad. Most urgently, Washington warned that knowledge is the surest basis of public happiness and vital to a free Constitution. Yet we’ve turned education, science, and even basic facts into partisan battlegrounds. A nation that can’t agree on truth can’t govern itself for long. He also emphasized public credit and long-term stability. Instead, we keep...