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Artists pull out of Great American State Fair amid political controversy
Multiple performers scheduled for the Great American State Fair in Washington DC have canceled their appearances, alleging they were misled about the event's political connections. The festival, part of America's 250th birthday celebrations, is set to run from June 25 to July 10 on the National Mall.
Event origins and claims of non-partisanship
The festival is organized by Freedom 250, a nonprofit launched last year with support from the Trump administration. While the group describes itself as non-partisan and dedicated to uniting Americans, its CEO was appointed by former President Donald Trump. Despite these assurances, several artists have cited undisclosed political affiliations as their reason for withdrawing.
Artists speak out against perceived political bias
Rappers Young MC and Morris Day were the first to announce their cancellations. Young MC, known for his 1989 hit Bust a Move, stated on social media that performers were not informed of the event's political ties and expressed his intention to participate in future DC events that are "not so politically charged." Morris Day posted a simple image on Instagram with the text: "Contrary to Rumor, Morris Day & The Time Will Not Be Performing At The 'GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR.'"
The Commodores, Martina McBride, and Poison frontman Bret Michaels soon followed. The Commodores emphasized their neutrality, stating, "Our music has always been our voice and we choose not to publicly affiliate with any single political party." McBride said she was "presented with an opportunity to perform at a nonpartisan event but that turned out to be misleading." Michaels cited both political divisiveness and safety concerns in his decision to withdraw.
"Unfortunately what was presented to us as a celebration of our country has evolved into something much more divisive than what I agreed to be a part of."
Bret Michaels, Poison frontman
Some performers remain committed
Despite the withdrawals, rappers Flo Rida and Vanilla Ice are still scheduled to perform. Vanilla Ice, whose real name is Robert Matthew Van Winkle, defended the event in an Instagram video, stating, "This is not a political platform. This is celebrating America's birthday." Fab Morvan, one half of the public-facing duo Milli Vanilli, will also appear, though the original vocalists behind the group's hits have distanced themselves, calling any performers using the name Milli Vanilli a "tribute band."
Freedom Williams of C+C Music Factory, known for the 1990s hit Gonna Make You Sweat, confirmed he will perform but clarified that he does not support Trump.
Trump weighs in, suggests alternative rally
Former President Donald Trump responded to the cancellations on Truth Social, suggesting he might hold a competing rally at the same time and location. "I am ordering my Representatives to look at the feasibility of doing an AMERICA IS BACK Rally on Wednesday, Washington, D.C., same time, same location. Only Great Patriots invited," he wrote, referring to himself as "the Number One Attraction anywhere in the World."
Trump also criticized the withdrawing artists, calling them "third rate" and claiming they had "the yips" about their performances.
Organizers stand firm amid backlash
Freedom 250 has not announced any changes to the lineup. Spokeswoman Rachel Reisner issued a statement emphasizing the event's unifying mission: "There is far too much to celebrate about this great nation to let noise and division distract from the incredible moment ahead - and we look forward to welcoming millions of Americans to a fair that belongs to all Americans."
Broader 250th anniversary celebrations
The Great American State Fair is one of several events planned to mark the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence. The White House is backing additional celebrations, including a UFC fight on the South Lawn, a Grand Prix race in August, and the release of commemorative passports featuring a portrait of Trump.
