Trump Honors Thomas Edison on America's 250th

Former President celebrates inventor's legacy and calls for new era of American innovation.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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On what would have been Thomas Edison's 179th birthday, former President Trump honored the legendary inventor's life and extraordinary legacy of American entrepreneurship and ingenuity. Trump praised Edison's resilience and determination in overcoming challenges to become one of the most prolific inventors in U.S. history, with over 1,000 patents to his name. The former President said his administration is proudly carrying Edison's legacy forward by empowering the next generation of innovators through deregulation and tax cuts.

Why it matters

Thomas Edison's life story and groundbreaking inventions, including the phonograph, motion picture camera, and incandescent light bulb, have had a profound impact on modern life. As the U.S. celebrates its 250th anniversary, honoring Edison's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of American innovation and entrepreneurship to drive progress and improve the human condition.

The details

Born in Ohio and raised in Michigan, Edison had virtually no formal education but was a voracious reader and constant tinkerer. Despite challenges like deafness, he devoted himself entirely to invention and innovation, ultimately receiving over 1,000 patents. His most famous inventions, including the phonograph, motion picture camera, and incandescent light bulb, transformed daily life for Americans and people around the world.

  • Thomas Edison was born on February 11, 1847.

The players

Thomas Edison

One of the most prolific inventors in U.S. history, with over 1,000 patents to his name. His groundbreaking inventions, including the phonograph, motion picture camera, and incandescent light bulb, transformed daily life for Americans and people around the world.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who praised Edison's legacy and said his administration is carrying it forward by empowering the next generation of innovators.

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What they’re saying

“My Administration is proudly carrying Thomas Edison's legacy forward into the 21st century, ushering in a new Golden Age of American innovation and ingenuity.”

— Donald Trump, Former President (miragenews.com)

“As we celebrate Thomas Edison's timeless contributions to our way of life, we are reminded that technological advancement is achieved through hard work, tenacity, and an unwavering commitment to forging a great American future.”

— Donald Trump, Former President (miragenews.com)

The takeaway

By honoring the life and legacy of Thomas Edison, one of America's most celebrated inventors, the former President has highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and determination to drive progress and secure the country's future prosperity.