At least seven states have declined to participate in the Great American State Fair, a central event planned for June 25 on the National Mall as part of nationwide celebrations marking the United States’ 250th anniversary. The withdrawals signal a growing division in the summer’s commemorations, which have increasingly taken on a partisan tone amid President Donald Trump’s involvement.

The states that have opted out include Connecticut, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. All but Vermont are led by Democratic governors. Vermont’s Republican Governor Phil Scott has also been critical of Mr. Trump, contributing to his state’s absence from the event.

Several states cited budgetary constraints as the primary reason for declining participation. North Carolina officials emphasized their focus on independently organized America 250 events, including a celebration planned for July 4 at the State Capitol in Raleigh. Oregon officials noted both financial concerns and unease over the event becoming partisan, with a spokesperson describing the fair as “shaping up to be a more partisan affair than originally presented.”

Despite the withdrawals by official state entities, the event’s organizers assured that all states and territories would still be represented in some capacity throughout the 16-day celebration. Freedom 250, the nonprofit hosting the event, stated that even without formal government involvement, states could be represented by local companies or organizations. For instance, a North Carolina specialty vehicle company, Spevco, is expected to participate on behalf of that state.

Freedom 250 operates as a subsidiary of the National Park Foundation, which works closely with the National Park Service. However, the group has faced scrutiny over its management of taxpayer funds, allegations of offering exclusive access to high-profile political figures for major donors, and questions about transparency.

The 250th anniversary commemorations originated from legislation passed in 2016 that established a bipartisan commission to oversee planning. This commission subsequently formed the America 250 foundation to coordinate fundraising and event development. While America 250 manages many projects, the prominent D.C.-based activities have been linked to Freedom 250 and associates of President Trump. Among these are UFC events held on the White House’s South Lawn, with UFC CEO Dana White, a close ally of the president, involved in the festivities.

Planned attractions for the Great American State Fair include state and territorial food vendors, military demonstrations, and a 110-foot Ferris wheel. Several musical performers have declined to participate, citing concerns that they were unaware the event was initiated by the Trump administration. President Trump has also scheduled a rally during the period, further underscoring the political dimensions of the commemorations.

Freedom 250 representatives maintain the organization’s nonpartisan stance, highlighting its collaborative work across a spectrum of political affiliations and regional governments. They assert that the event intends to celebrate all American communities during this once-in-a-generation milestone.