Ford tops 'most American brand' list, Bill Ford asks nation to unite

A new survey found that Ford is viewed as the most American brand across party lines and income levels.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Ford Motor Co. has been named the most 'quintessentially American brand' in a new survey called 'America 250' commissioned by the Business Council. The survey found that Ford is the top American brand among both Democrats and Republicans, as well as across all income levels. In response, Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford has called for Americans to put aside their differences and unite to help build a stronger future for the country.

Why it matters

This recognition reflects Ford's long history and deep ties to the American identity. As one of the country's oldest and most iconic companies, Ford has played a central role in the nation's economic and cultural fabric for over a century. The survey results underscore the enduring appeal of the Ford brand and the company's ability to transcend political divides, highlighting its broad-based popularity among the American public.

The details

The 'America 250' survey, conducted by Morning Consult, asked respondents to identify the 'most American' brand from a list of options that included Ford, McDonald's, Coca-Cola, Walmart, and others. Ford topped the list, with 17% of U.S. respondents choosing it as the most quintessentially American brand. McDonald's and Coca-Cola tied for second place at 13%, followed by Walmart at 10%. The survey also found that the key factors driving a 'American' brand perception were products made in the U.S., a U.S. founding, and a long American heritage - all of which Ford possesses.

  • The 'America 250' survey was conducted from February 13-16, 2026.
  • Ford launched its 'From America, For America' marketing campaign in April 2025, shortly after President Trump enacted 25% tariffs on imported cars and auto parts.

The players

Bill Ford

The Executive Chair of Ford Motor Co., who is calling for Americans to come together and build a stronger future for the country.

Jim Farley

The CEO of Ford Motor Co.

Mary Barra

The CEO of General Motors, who is a member of the Business Council that commissioned the 'America 250' survey.

Kyle Dropp

The co-founder and president of Morning Consult, the global intelligence firm that conducted the 'America 250' survey.

Henry Ford

The founder of Ford Motor Co., who is credited with innovations like the assembly line that helped build America's middle class.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are still America's number one auto producer and a top employer. As we look to the next 250 years, I believe the future is incredibly bright, but it hinges on us coming together as a nation. We must heal our divisions and keep pushing forward, just as we always have. Ford will be there, serving the nation and helping to build a stronger future.”

— Bill Ford, Executive Chair, Ford Motor Co. (Detroit Free Press)

“As we approach America's 250th anniversary, I'm proud that Ford has helped strengthen this country — not just by building great vehicles, but by expanding opportunity and improving people's lives. My great-grandfather, Henry Ford, embodied this when he founded Ford in 1903.”

— Bill Ford, Executive Chair, Ford Motor Co. (Detroit Free Press)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.