Visitors Say Politics Not Evident at Trump-Hosted State Fair on National Mall

Washington — Overcast weather did not deter visitors to the Great American State Fair, a 16-day celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary held on the National Mall. The fair, organized by the Freedom 250 partnership, featured food, cultural displays from all 56 states and territories, and temporary exhibition halls for federal agencies, while a large Ferris wheel and a scaled replica of a proposed permanent arch rose above the grounds.

Freedom 250, which describes itself as nonpartisan, has been criticized for linking the anniversary to President Donald Trump’s redevelopment projects, including a permanent arch, a repaint of the Reflecting Pool and the naming of the Kennedy Center. Legal challenges have already affected some of those initiatives.

Nevertheless, more than a dozen fairgoers from both political sides said they did not perceive a partisan tone. > "It’s kind of neat because here it’s just been all about America, and I haven’t seen the political things," said Pamela L., 59, visiting from Virginia Beach. > "People are just being people, enjoying, being kind, opening doors for each other," she added.

Other visitors echoed the sentiment. > "It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event for our generation," said Nicole Briggs, 52. > "I think it’s very patriotic, proud of America and all it represents," added Heather Hatter, 48, as officials including Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler were introduced.

The fair’s opening ceremony on Thursday featured a performance of "God Bless the U.S.A." by Lee Greenwood and remarks from President Trump emphasizing national pride and future ambition. Military bands performed, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized the musical acts that withdrew, calling them "libtards" in a partisan remark.

Some attendees had expected a more overtly partisan event. > "I think we heard a lot, like in our communities, that it was gonna be like a MAGA rally," said Daniela Guerrero, 25, who later described the fair as "very much nonpartisan."

Several states, including six led by Democratic governors, declined to send official delegations, citing cost and concerns about partisanship. Oregon’s governor’s office said the decision was due to both financial considerations and the event’s perceived partisan nature. In contrast, visitors from states without delegations expressed disappointment that political considerations were influencing participation.

The fair continues to run through the weekend, with additional events such as Sail 250, a FIFA World Cup FanFest, the July 4 Salute to America fireworks and the Patriot Games scheduled for later this year.