Trump Opens Great American State Fair Amid Artist Withdrawals
President Donald Trump inaugurated the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, an event marking the United States' 250th anniversary, after several musical acts withdrew over concerns of political affiliation.
President Donald Trump delivered a 30-minute speech to launch the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, an exposition organized by Freedom 250 to commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday. In his remarks, Trump said the United States is “back” and praised recent diplomatic steps with Iran, claiming the agreement will end the conflict and keep Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
The event followed the withdrawal of several performers, including rapper Young MC and country singer Martina McBride, who cited the political nature of the fair backed by the Trump administration. Trump positioned himself as the headliner, opening the ceremony with a performance of “God Bless the U.S.A.” by country singer Lee Greenwood.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and chief of protocol Monica Crowley made statements praising Trump’s role in the celebration. Trump also referenced domestic policy, noting the administration’s ban on gender-affirming procedures for minors and the removal of transgender athletes from women’s sports.
Attendees, numbering over 1,000, gathered on the Mall’s lawn, many wearing apparel bearing Trump slogans. The fair featured military flyovers, bands, and a national anthem performed by Alexis Wilkins, identified as the girlfriend of FBI Director Kash Patel. Merchandise stalls sold caps and shirts with “America Is Back” branding.
The opening ceremony also touched on the recent damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, with Trump stating that repairs were underway.
“We banned the transgender mutilation of children, and we made it the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders — male and female,” Trump said.
“Last week we signed a historic agreement to end the conflict with Iran, fully open the Strait of Hormuz and accomplish what no president has ever been able to accomplish before,” he added.
The fair is intended to run for 16 days, showcasing a range of patriotic and cultural activities while highlighting the administration’s narrative of national renewal.
