The Great American State Fair, a 16-day event on the National Mall designed to showcase American culture ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary, kicks off Thursday. But at least seven Democratic-led states have announced they will not send official representatives, with some accusing the Trump administration of turning the celebration into a partisan vehicle.
Massachusetts, North Carolina, Washington, Illinois, Oregon, and Connecticut all cited budget constraints. Maine's tourism office said scheduling conflicts during a busy summer prevented attendance. Pennsylvania is still weighing participation, a spokesperson told The Hill.
Freedom 250, the nonprofit organizing the fair, insists all 50 states and U.S. territories will be represented, even without direct state government involvement. “Whether represented by a governor’s office, a tourism board, or a beloved state company or organization, every community will be celebrated,” spokesperson Rachel Reisner said.
Illinois will be represented by the Peoria Riverfront Museum, which funded its own exhibit featuring an “Illinois Voices 250” hologram. A state official noted no taxpayer money was used. North Carolina will appear through vehicle company Spveco and NASCAR team Richard Childress Racing. Governor Josh Stein (D) said he is “looking forward” to national Fourth of July festivities and is “glad” private companies will represent the state.
Other states were more blunt. Washington Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck (D) said the state faces a “very difficult fiscal situation,” adding that participation costs were too high. Oregon spokesperson Luke Harkins pointed to both cost and “growing concerns that the event in Washington, D.C., is shaping up to be a more partisan affair than originally presented.”
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey (D) was the most outspoken. During a Boston Public Radio appearance, she accused President Trump of using the fair to “get money into his own pocket.” Healey claimed states were being charged to participate, calling it “ridiculous.” Freedom 250 denied any cost requirement, stating each state received a free space on the Mall.
Not all Democratic states are staying away. California, Colorado, and New York have confirmed participation. New York’s “I LOVE NY” campaign will offer branded prizes. Colorado’s exhibit will feature real coniferous trees, a ski lift, and a Red Rocks Amphitheatre-inspired display. “Our State looks forward to showcasing Colorado,” spokesperson Eric Maruyama said.
The fair is organized by Freedom 250, a Trump-commissioned group separate from the bipartisan America 250 commission established by Congress in 2016. America 250 plans its own events, including a block party and time capsules. Freedom 250 has repeatedly stressed its nonpartisan mission, but the political divide over the fair mirrors broader tensions. As recent debates over patriotism show, the anniversary has become a flashpoint. Meanwhile, a new poll finds most Americans doubt anyone can achieve the American dream, adding a somber note to the celebrations.
Despite the boycott, organizers say the fair will go ahead with broad representation. Reisner emphasized, “Freedom 250 is a nonpartisan organization, full stop.” But with seven states sitting out and a rising partisan temperature, the Great American State Fair is already a political story as much as a patriotic one.
