President Donald Trump is preparing to personally open the 250th anniversary celebration of the US Declaration of Independence after many famous singers withdrew from the opening concert, citing a desire to avoid involvement in political issues.
The progress of organizing the national event "Great American State Fair," a 16-day celebration from 25 June to 10 July 2026 at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is facing a major problem as a group of artists, whose names were revealed, have been continuously withdrawing because they do not want their work to be entangled with political issues or with President Donald Trump.
Famous artists who announced their withdrawal include legendary rock band Poison, led by lead singer Bret Michaels; funk legends The Commodores; renowned country singer Martina McBride; as well as hip-hop artists Young MC and Morris Day.
Bret Michaels stated, "What was initially presented to us as a celebration of the country has become too politically divisive for me to accept," while The Commodores said, "Music is our voice, and we choose not to appear to support any political party." Similarly, Young MC revealed that the team had not informed them initially about any political involvement.
However, some artists have confirmed they will perform, such as famous rappers Flo Rida and Vanilla Ice. Vanilla Ice said, "This is not a political stage; it is a celebration of America's birthday." Likewise, Fab Morvan, a frontman of the 1990s group Milli Vanilli, also confirmed he will perform.
President Donald Trump immediately responded via the Truth Social platform, criticizing the artists who withdrew as "third-rate" and saying they were overreacting.
Trump stated that if all the singers pull out, the concert might no longer be necessary. He has instructed representatives to assess the possibility of holding a major rally, the "AMERICA IS BACK Rally," at the same place and time instead. He boasted, "The fact is, in the opinion of many, I am currently the world's number one attraction. I can draw larger audiences than Elvis Presley in his prime—and I do it without even using a guitar."
Recently, the "Freedom 250" group, a nonprofit organization jointly established by the White House and government agencies to oversee the celebration, posted a message confirming that Trump will personally "open this historic celebration." They issued a statement saying there are many great things in this country worth celebrating and that they will not allow noise or division to ruin this grand moment.
The "Great American State Fair" is designed to be grand, with the event space stretching from the bridge in front of the Capitol Building to the Washington Monument. The event will feature concert stages, state courts, exhibitions, and many amusement rides.
Additionally, the White House is supporting several other 250th anniversary activities, such as hosting a mixed martial arts (UFC) competition on the South Lawn of the White House, a Formula One race in the capital city in August, and preparing a limited edition passport featuring an image of President Donald Trump inside the booklet.