President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Saturday formally designating English as the nation’s official language, formalizing something that has been true in practice since the nation’s inception.

“From the founding of our Republic, English has been used as our national language.  Our Nation’s historic governing documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, have all been written in English.  It is therefore long past time that English is declared as the official language of the United States,” said President Trump.

“A nationally designated language is at the core of a unified and cohesive society, and the United States is strengthened by a citizenry that can freely exchange ideas in one shared language,” he added.

The President suggested that the bill honors immigrants who have strived to learn English and argued that policies encouraging immigrants to learn English will help legal immigrants achieve the American Dream.

Trump reasoned that a formal official language would help develop and maintain a unified American culture and would simplify governmental processes.

“It is in America’s best interest for the Federal Government to designate one — and only one — official language.  Establishing English as the official language will not only streamline communication but also reinforce shared national values, and create a more cohesive and efficient society,” said Trump.

The order officially rescinds an earlier order issued by President Bill Clinton in 2000, intended to improve access to federal programs for immigrants unable to speak English proficiently.

The president pointed out that, although the U.S. previously had no official language, his action is in keeping with the nation’s history, noting that the founding documents, such as the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, were written entirely in English.

Even prior to Trump’s order, immigrants applying for citizenship, with a few exceptions for long time legal immigrants over 50 years of age, were required to demonstrate proficiency in English.

Over 30 states, including Massachusetts and New Hampshire, but not Maine, already have English designated as their official language.

Despite this, the taxpayer Funded NPR report on the president’s order cited League of United Latin American Citizens, claiming that the founding fathers wanted a nation in which diversity was the greatest strength, and that the order contradicts the vision of the founders.

“America thrives when we embrace inclusivity, not when we silence the voices of millions who contribute to its success,” said the organization, suggesting that they mistakenly believe the order could prevent other languages from being spoken in the U.S.