President Donald Trump’s 16-day “Great American State Fair” is facing a host of issues after several states said they would not participate in the showcase on the National Mall in Washington.
The development comes on the heels of the fair’s unsuccessful opening concert, which the president replaced with a rally that he plans to headline after several performers dropped out.
Which States Aren’t Participating?
Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, Illinois, North Carolina, Maine and Connecticut told NOTUS they declined the White House invitation to send an official delegation.
The majority of state representatives cited concerns over the high costs of creating and staffing booths for over two weeks, as well as their intention to prioritize their own local and statewide events. The fair is scheduled to operate 11-13 hours a day, according to the website of the organizing body, Freedom 250.
But there are some indications that Freedom 250’s partisan reputation might be dissuading states from joining. A spokesperson for the Oregon governor’s office brought up issues with the fair’s political leanings, echoing the sentiment of many performers who dropped out of the event.
Freedom 250, a public-private partnership founded by the Trump administration, is separate from the congressionally backed nonprofit America 250. It most recently faced scrutiny as the organization behind the mixed martial arts card set to take place at the White House for Trump’s birthday on Sunday.
In addition to the states that have declined to participate, Maryland was originally undecided on the invite but has since confirmed its attendance. Pennsylvania has yet to commit to attending.’
Will Every State Be Represented?
Despite the official absences, Freedom 250 officials have said all 50 states and six U.S. territories will be represented in some form.
Some officially participating states have unveiled ambitious designs for their showcases – including virtual-reality hunting and representatives dressed in “Western Americana attire.”
But states that have turned down the offer will see various private companies and organizations stand in for them instead. The Peoria Riverfront Museum is appearing on behalf of Illinois, while North Carolina will be represented by local specialty vehicle company Spevco.
Neither of the states was contacted about its replacements or had any information on why those organizations were chosen, according to NOTUS.
Renderings of the fair on Freedom 250’s website and social media accounts include a Ferris wheel overlooking the Mall, a small replica of Trump’s planned 250-foot arch and indoor pavilions hosting the various state and territory booths.
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