President Donald Trump commenced the Great American State Fair on Wednesday evening, delivering remarks on the National Mall that emphasized his administration's achievements and likened his political movement to the American Revolution. The event, held in Washington D.C., marked the opening of celebrations for the United States' 250th anniversary.
"Just like those patriots of 1776, over the past 17 months, we have taken power back from the far off political class," Trump told the assembled crowd. "They’re trying to gain it back, but it’s not going to happen. We have reclaimed our sovereignty, regained our liberty, restored our prosperity, and we have saved our country in all things. We are once again putting a thing called America first."
The president's appearance was accompanied by military flyovers, including B-2 bombers and F-35 stealth fighter jets, and featured music from the U.S. Marine Band. Trump declared, "America is back." He added, "We’re the hottest country anywhere in the world. We’re respected by everybody. Nobody’s laughing at us anymore."
Trump highlighted improvements made to the nation's capital during his tenure, stating that homeless encampments and graffiti had been removed, and more than 50 monuments and memorials had been repaired and beautified. He also noted the cleaning of dozens of statues and repairs to landmarks such as Union Station, Meridian Hill Park, Lafayette Square, and the Reflecting Pool, which he described as having been "gruesomely vandalized by thugs."
He previewed several upcoming anniversary-related projects, including a new White House ballroom, a "triumphal arc" near Arlington Cemetery, the National Garden of American Heroes in West Potomac Park, and a "Spirit of ’76" exhibition at Freedom Plaza designed to honor figures from the American Revolution.
Trump framed the 250th anniversary as a moment to celebrate America's past and as a foundation for a new "golden age of America." "This anniversary is a time to be proud of our past," he said. "But it is also a time to lift our sights, expand our ambitions, and raise our expectations of what America can be."
The fair, which runs through July 10, is set to showcase all 50 states and six U.S. territories. Planned attractions include military demonstrations, high-tech exhibitions, a FIFA fan zone, and a rodeo. Trump also announced plans for a large Fourth of July celebration on the National Mall, promising "the largest fireworks display in world history."
Additional anniversary events mentioned include the Patriot Games, a competition for top high school athletes, and a Freedom 250 Grand Prix race. Trump concluded his address by emphasizing the country's heritage and its future destiny.
"This is our heritage. This is our history, and this is the destiny of America to be the greatest, most incredible country ever to grace the earth," Trump stated. "We are one people, one nation, marching into one magnificent future under our great American flag."