Should Biden make the bald eagle our national bird?

In December 2024, the United States moved a step closer to officially recognizing the bald eagle as the national bird. This decision came after the House of Representatives held a vote on a bill aimed at designating the bald eagle in this cherished role. The legislation had already seen success in the Senate, where it was passed unanimously in July. Following the House's approval, the bill is set to be sent to President Joe Biden for his signature, solidifying its status. The bald eagle has long served as a powerful symbol of national pride since its depiction on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782, but this legislative action will legally establish its official status for the first time under U.S. law. The bill's passage illustrates bipartisan support, including significant advocacy from lawmakers in Minnesota. Reps. Brad Finstad (Republican) and Angie Craig (Democrat) led the charge in the House, emphasizing the eagle's importance as a national symbol of freedom and strength. Representative Russell Fry from South Carolina echoed this sentiment during the House floor debate, noting that the eagle is represented in various aspects of U.S. culture, including military insignia, currency, and state flags. Moreover, the bald eagle holds ceremonial significance for many Native American tribes throughout the country. It is important to note that before this legislation, the bald eagle was not officially recognized as the national bird, despite its extensive representation in U.S. history and culture. The eagle was once considered an endangered species but has since made a remarkable recovery, aided by protective measures enacted through the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. These laws criminalize hunting or harming eagles and their nests. The introduction of this bill ties the bald eagle’s formal designation to other national symbols, such as “The Star-Spangled Banner” as the national anthem, further cementing its place in American identity. Supporters of this designation believe the eagle epitomizes the essence of American freedom and resilience. As the nation reflects on its symbols, the recognition of the bald eagle stands as a testament to the ongoing appreciation for its history and recovery, marking a transition toward a more formal acknowledgment of its significance as a national emblem.