As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, The Economic Club of Washington, D.C. is pleased to present The Declaration of Independence at 250 with David Rubenstein and Michael Auslin, Author of National Treasure. This special Signature Dinner Event will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026. The reception will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by the dinner and program at 7:00 p.m., ending promptly at 9:00 p.m.
Drawing on his lifelong interest in American history and public service, David Rubenstein will discuss the creation of the Declaration of Independence, the key figures behind it, the significance of its most enduring passages, and who was in the room during the pivotal moments of the founding. He will also reflect on how these founding ideals continue to inform leadership and public service today, both in America and around the world.
During the program David Rubenstein will also interview Dr. Michael Auslin, Author of National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made America. Released earlier this year, National Treasure is the first book ever to tell the complete story of the Declaration of Independence - from its drafting by Thomas Jefferson to its enshrinement in the National Archives. Dr. Auslin is the Payson J. Treat Distinguished Research Fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution. Prior to that, he was an Associate Professor of History at Yale University.
Members and guests will have the opportunity to view a replica of the Declaration that Rubenstein will bring to the event.
