Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urged Americans on Wednesday to get married and start having children, claiming it was the "best decision I ever made," as the country prepares to celebrate the United States' 250th birthday. 

The comment was made during his speech at the opening celebration of the Great American State Fair, which was modeled after world fairs and features 150 exhibits from “all 56 states and territories, businesses, innovators, and civic organizations."

The secretary, who married his wife, Fox News host Rachel Campos Duffy, in 1999, said the classic American ideals of falling in love, getting married and having children are what gives him purpose.  

"27 years of marriage and 9 kids later, I can tell you it’s the best decision I’ve ever made," Dufy said. "The strength of our country is rooted entirely in the strength of our families. As we celebrate the country’s 250th birthday, we should celebrate our American family."

The speech comes just days before the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Celebrations are expected nationwide with key events in New York City, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and at Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.

The Great American State Fair, which opens June 25, will run until July 10 and will also feature a 110' Ferris wheel.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.