Democratic-led states balk at ‘Great American State Fair’

A grand state fair highlighting American culture is set to kick off on the National Mall this week ahead of the country’s 250th anniversary, but several states have publicly said they will not attend the event.  

At least seven states led by Democratic governors have opted not to send official representatives to the “Great American State Fair,” with some raising concerns that the event is shaping up to be more partisan than it has been billed.

The 16 days of festivities on the National Mall kick off Thursday, and each day will center on a different facet of American history. 

Massachusetts, North Carolina, Washington, Illinois, Oregon and Connecticut all cited budget constraints in their reasons not to attend. Maine’s tourism office told a local ABC News station it declined the invitation due to scheduling demands during a “busy summer season.” 

Additionally, a spokesperson for Pennsylvania’s tourism board told The Hill on Wednesday that the state is still making a determination about whether it will participate. 

The fair’s organizer, Freedom 250, said that all 50 states and U.S. territories will be represented, regardless of direct involvement from state governments. 

“Whether represented by a governor’s office, a tourism board, or a beloved state company or organization, every community will be celebrated, and every American will see themselves in this once-in-a-generation event,” spokesperson Rachel Reisner said. 

Illinois’s Peoria Riverfront Museum volunteered to showcase the state’s history at the fair, and their exhibit will include an “Illinois Voices 250” hologram that features stories from state residents. A spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources noted that no state funds were used for this showcase. 

North Carolina will be represented by vehicle company Spveco and NASCAR team Richard Childress Racing. 

A spokesperson for North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein (D) said that the governor is “looking forward” to the Independence Day festivities being held........

© The Hill