PHOENIX, Ariz. (August 24, 2026) – Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has proclaimed August 24–30, 2026, as the third annual John McCain Democracy Week, honoring Senator John McCain’s legacy of service and his lifelong commitment to freedom, democracy, and human rights.
The week coincides with what would have been Senator McCain’s 90th birthday on August 29. It also comes as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, providing an opportunity to reflect on the ideals that shaped the nation, guided Senator McCain throughout his life, and continue to call each generation to defend them.
“Senator John McCain embodied the very best of Arizona—a fierce independence, an unwavering devotion to country over party, and a strong commitment to protecting our democratic institutions. I’m proud to proclaim this week John McCain Democracy Week as a reminder that our democracy requires courage, civility, and a shared willingness to serve a cause greater than ourselves,” said Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs.
Marking eight years since his passing, the proclamation recognizes Senator McCain’s belief that America is a nation defined by its commitment to democratic ideals, freedom, and the rights of individuals to determine their own futures. He often reminded Americans that our shared values and democratic principles are greater than our differences.
John understood that democracy is only as strong as the people willing to defend it,” said McCain Institute Chairman Emeritus Amb. Cindy McCain. “For more than 50 years, he dedicated his life to serving Arizona and our nation because he recognized that freedom, democracy, and human rights cannot be taken for granted. John McCain Democracy Week honors his enduring legacy while challenging the next generation to turn those principles into action—to lead, engage, and stand up for democracy when it matters most.”
In his farewell statement, Senator John McCain wrote, “‘Fellow Americans’ — that association has meant more to me than any other. I lived and died a proud American. We are citizens of the world’s greatest republic, a nation of ideals, not blood and soil. We are blessed and are a blessing to humanity when we uphold and advance those ideals at home and in the world. We have helped liberate more people from tyranny and poverty than ever before in history.”
Learn more about Senator McCain’s legacy at McCainInstitute.org.
View text of the proclamation below, and a PDF version here.
JOHN MCCAIN DEMOCRACY WEEK 2026 PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Senator John Sidney McCain III, born on August 29, 1936, devoted his life to the service of the United States, embodying the values of duty, honor, courage, and sacrifice that defined both his military and public service careers; and
WHEREAS, as a naval aviator and prisoner of war (POW) in Vietnam, Senator McCain endured extraordinary hardship with unwavering resolve, refusing an early release in the name of the U.S. Military Code of Conduct which declared all prisoners be freed in the order they were captured; and
WHEREAS, Senator McCain’s decades of public service were marked by his country first philosophy and steadfast belief that democracy is strengthened through civic engagement, respect for constitutional institutions, and the active participation of informed citizens; and
WHEREAS, throughout his career, Senator McCain championed the cause of freedom and human dignity around the world, standing with those who sought liberty in the face of oppression and advocating for democratic values wherever they were threatened; and
WHEREAS, Senator McCain believed America’s leadership was most effective when rooted in principle, strengthened by alliances, and guided by a commitment to advancing peace, security, and opportunity for future generations; and
WHEREAS, Senator McCain’s enduring legacy continues to inspire leaders, citizens, and future generations to defend democratic values and advance the cause of freedom around the world; and
WHEREAS, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of America’s founding and what would have been Senator McCain’s 90th birthday, reminding us of the enduring belief of both our forefathers and Senator McCain that the United States is a nation of ideals, united by the right to self-determination; and
WHEREAS, Senator McCain believed that our shared values are greater than our differences, and understood that free speech, free press, and free elections are fundamental to a democracy; and
WHEREAS, Senator McCain’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities and opportunities of American citizenship and democracy.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Katie Hobbs, Governor of the State of Arizona, do hereby proclaim August 24-30, 2026, as
JOHN MCCAIN DEMOCRACY WEEK