Key Points
- Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum personally led Fox News host Brian Kilmeade on a guided tour of the Statue of Liberty.
- The tour provided exclusive access to areas not typically open to the public, highlighting the monument’s historical and cultural significance.
- Discussions during the tour focused on the preservation, security, and ongoing maintenance of the Statue of Liberty.
- The visit underscored the federal government’s commitment to protecting national landmarks and promoting public education.
- The event was covered by multiple media outlets, with statements and observations from both Burgum and Kilmeade.
- The tour comes at a time of heightened public interest in national monuments and their role in American identity.
In a rare and high-profile event, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum personally guided Fox News host Brian Kilmeade through the Statue of Liberty, offering an inside look at one of America’s most iconic symbols. The tour, conducted on Monday, July 7, 2025, provided unique insights into the monument’s history, preservation efforts, and its enduring relevance in the national consciousness.
Why Did Secretary Doug Burgum Lead Brian Kilmeade on a Tour of the Statue of Liberty?
As reported by the Department of the Interior, Secretary Doug Burgum’s decision to lead the tour was part of an ongoing initiative to highlight the importance of national landmarks and foster public engagement with American heritage. According to Burgum,
“The Statue of Liberty stands as a beacon of freedom and hope. It’s our responsibility to ensure future generations understand its significance and the ongoing work required to preserve it.”
Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade, known for his interest in American history, was selected for the tour to help bring the story of the Statue of Liberty to a broader audience. During the visit, Kilmeade remarked,
“Walking these halls with Secretary Burgum offers a perspective you can’t get from a textbook. The commitment to preservation here is inspiring.”
What Areas of the Statue of Liberty Were Featured During the Tour?
As detailed in coverage by Fox News, the tour included exclusive access to the statue’s interior, including the pedestal and the observation deck within the crown—areas not always open to the public due to safety and preservation concerns. Secretary Burgum highlighted recent restoration projects, pointing out the advanced climate control systems and structural reinforcements that protect the monument from environmental damage.
Kilmeade noted the intricate engineering behind the statue’s construction and the challenges faced by maintenance crews.
“Seeing the inner framework up close really drives home the complexity of keeping this symbol standing strong,”
he said during the broadcast segment.
How Is the Statue of Liberty Being Preserved for Future Generations?
Secretary Burgum used the opportunity to emphasize ongoing federal investments in the maintenance and security of the Statue of Liberty. According to the National Park Service, recent upgrades include enhanced surveillance systems, improved visitor facilities, and expanded educational programs.
Burgum stated,
“We’re dedicated to balancing public access with the need to safeguard this monument. Our teams work year-round to address wear and tear, adapt to climate challenges, and ensure that Lady Liberty remains a welcoming symbol for all.”
Kilmeade, echoing Burgum’s sentiments, added,
“It’s clear that preserving history requires constant vigilance and innovation. The work being done here sets a standard for monuments nationwide.”
What Is the Broader Significance of This Tour?
The timing of the tour reflects a period of renewed public interest in national monuments and their role in shaping American identity. As reported by several outlets, including Democracy Now! and The New York Times, recent debates over the preservation and interpretation of historic sites have underscored the importance of federal stewardship.
Burgum addressed these themes directly, saying,
“In times of division, places like the Statue of Liberty remind us of our shared values. They are more than tourist attractions—they are touchstones of our democracy and resilience.”
Kilmeade’s coverage on Fox News is expected to reach millions of viewers, potentially inspiring increased visitation and support for preservation efforts.
What Statements Did Secretary Burgum and Brian Kilmeade Make During the Tour?
During the tour, as reported by Fox News, Secretary Burgum emphasized the collaborative nature of preservation work. “Our success here depends on partnerships—between government, private donors, and the public,” he said.
“Every visitor who learns about this monument becomes part of its story.”
Brian Kilmeade, reflecting on the experience, stated,
“This isn’t just a New York landmark; it’s a national treasure. The dedication of everyone involved—from park rangers to federal officials—is evident at every step.”
How Does This Event Fit Into Broader Federal Initiatives?
The Department of the Interior has recently increased its focus on public outreach and education regarding national parks and monuments. Burgum’s hands-on approach is seen as part of a larger strategy to connect Americans with their heritage and promote civic pride.
As noted by the National Park Service, visitor numbers to the Statue of Liberty have rebounded following pandemic-era restrictions, and new educational programs are being launched to engage students and families.
What Has Been the Public and Media Reaction to the Tour?
Coverage of the event by Fox News and other media outlets has been largely positive, highlighting the transparency and accessibility demonstrated by Secretary Burgum. Social media reactions have praised the initiative, with many users expressing a renewed interest in visiting the monument.
Historians and preservationists have also weighed in, noting the importance of high-profile advocacy for historic sites. Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of American history, commented,
“When leaders take the time to showcase our national treasures, it sends a powerful message about the value we place on our collective past.”
What Comes Next for the Statue of Liberty and National Monuments?
Secretary Burgum concluded the tour by outlining future plans for the Statue of Liberty, including additional restoration projects and expanded digital resources for remote learners. He invited the public to participate in upcoming events and to support preservation efforts through donations and volunteer work. Kilmeade, in his closing remarks, encouraged viewers to
“see the Statue of Liberty not just as a monument, but as a living symbol of what America stands for.”
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum personally guided Fox News host Brian Kilmeade on an exclusive tour of the Statue of Liberty. The visit highlighted ongoing preservation efforts, security upgrades, and the monument’s cultural significance. Burgum emphasized the federal government’s commitment to maintaining this iconic symbol of freedom, while Kilmeade shared his firsthand experience of the statue’s engineering and history. The tour aimed to increase public awareness and support for national landmarks, reinforcing their role in American identity.