Trump Boosts American Spirit at Great American State Fair Kickoff

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump selected the opening ceremony of the Great American State Fair as a moment of triumph for both the United States and himself.

“Tonight, as we stand at the edge of our 250th year, I am thrilled to declare that America is back,” Trump announced during his speech on the National Mall.

“Recently, we were a country in decline. Today, we are the most dynamic nation worldwide, respected by everyone.”

This event, organized by Freedom 250, a public-private partnership founded by Trump, began a 16-day exposition to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. The planning faced issues last month, with artists such as Young MC and Martina McBride withdrawing due to concerns about a political backing from the Trump administration. Trump used this opportunity to include himself as the headliner and delivered a brief rally-style speech, wrapping up in roughly 30 minutes, staying focused throughout.

He decided to speak following the musicians’ concerns about potential partisan aspects of the fair.

Mandel Ngan / AFP via Getty Images

“This anniversary commemorates our proud past while encouraging us to aim higher and enhance our expectations for America’s future,” Trump said.

“We aim to leave our children the richest inheritance, most sophisticated civilization, with unrivaled living standards.”

Trump, who was escorted to the stage by country singer Lee Greenwood performing “God Bless the U.S.A.,” also recognized an agreement marking an end to the U.S. conflict with Iran.

“We signed a historic agreement last week to end the conflict with Iran, fully open the Strait of Hormuz, and achieve what no president has before,” Trump said, although some details remain under negotiation. “Iran will not possess a nuclear weapon.”

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Trump, heading the task force overseeing Freedom 250 festivities, spoke from behind bulletproof glass, with Freedom 250 and Great American State Fair banners adorning the stage.

Fighter jet flyovers and performances by military bands preceded the speech. The U.S. Marine Band accompanied Alexis Wilkins, who is connected to FBI Director Kash Patel, in performing the national anthem. The U.S. Army Band Downrange performed Laura Branigan’s “Gloria,” a Trump rally staple.

Trump was the center of attention throughout the event, despite comments from Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy who spoke against those withdrawing from the lineup, praising Trump as the greatest U.S. president since George Washington.

Monica Crowley, chief of protocol, mentioned Trump as a significant supporter of the event. Trump touched on cultural issues, controversial during his 2024 campaign.

“We prohibited gender-related surgeries for minors and enforced a policy recognizing only two genders—male and female,” he stated. “We removed men from women’s sports.”

Trump addressed claims of vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, with arrests and citations issued concerning the matter. The renovation included a new blue liner, although photos showed peeling and algae issues.

“Thugs vandalized the Reflecting Pool horrifically, but soon it will regain its beauty,” said Trump.

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At the kickoff, attendees gathered in the late afternoon, with American flag placards and seats. A Florida ministry provided prayers nearby.

Merchandise included red “America Is Back” caps, Freedom 250-themed shirts, and more. Attempts to purchase beer met disappointment, as only snacks and soft drinks were available.

With over 1,000 attendees, many wore Trump-themed clothing, less focused on America’s birthday than on seeing the president.

“This is my 116th Trump rally,” said Edward X. Young from New Jersey. “I support President Trump, considering him akin to George Washington.”

Young, wearing a shirt showing Trump and recalling the bicentennial in Boston, emphasized the historic facet over political aspects.

“I’m 66, reliving history, advising politics be set aside,” Young asserted.

Others, like Shannon Silveri, considered the event as nonpartisan.

Silveri noted, “It’s America’s 250th, marking a huge occasion.”

Similarly, Mary Smith from Ohio, described as “MAGA-ish,” valued the anniversary over political figures.

“It’s about the nation, transcending presidential considerations,” Smith stated.