Attendees Call Trump’s 16-Day State Fair Nonpolitical as 56 States and Territories Mark America at 250
Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jun 28
Attendees Call Trump’s 16-Day State Fair Nonpolitical as 56 States and Territories Mark America at 250
3 articles · Updated · NBC News · Jun 28
Summary
More than a dozen visitors at Trump’s Great American State Fair said Saturday the National Mall event felt patriotic rather than political, despite expectations from some that it would resemble a MAGA rally.
The 16-day fair, opened Thursday for America’s 250th anniversary, features booths from all 56 states and territories, federal agency exhibits and a Ferris wheel, drawing tourists and families even in drizzly weather.
That reception contrasts with criticism surrounding the event: several performers dropped out citing political concerns, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy gave a partisan opening-night speech attacking those cancellations.
At least six Democratic-led states declined to send delegations, with Oregon citing cost and worries the fair was becoming partisan, even as some attendees from nonparticipating states said a state fair should not be political.