Massachusetts resident staffs state booth at Great American State Fair after governor's boycott
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A private citizen from Massachusetts attended the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., operating the state's booth after Governor Maura Healey and other Democratic governors declined official participation.
Donna Festinger traveled from Massachusetts to Washington, D.C., to staff her state's booth at the Great American State Fair, a 250-year celebration of American independence held on the National Mall. She said she wanted a Massachusetts presence so that visitors would not encounter an empty space.
Festinger, a former teacher, funded her trip herself and plans to remain for the fair's 16-day run, which began on June 25 and is scheduled to end on July 10. She expressed disappointment that the governments of Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut and Rhode Island chose not to support the event, describing the decision as “shameful” and suggesting it could alienate residents.
Governor Maura Healey, who has publicly criticized former President Donald Trump, declined to send an official delegation. In a separate interview, she remarked that the fair was “too busy” for a presidential visit and questioned the financial arrangements for participating states.
Joining Festinger at the Massachusetts booth, Judith Kalaora dressed in a Revolutionary War-era uniform to honor Deborah Sampson, a Massachusetts woman who served in the war disguised as a man. Kalaora said her presence was intended to highlight the state's historical contributions and promote national unity.
Eleven Democratic-led states, including Illinois and Oregon, announced they would not take part in the fair, citing concerns about partisanship and costs. Oregon’s governor’s office noted the event appeared more partisan than originally presented.