Trump to headline 'American State Fair' after artists withdraw

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to headline the "American State Fair" on June 24, stepping in after a number of booked artists withdrew from the event. The fair, organized by Freedom 250, is intended to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States.

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I hear that some artists are getting the jitters about performing on Wednesday (June 24, the start of the festivities). Therefore, I am thinking about... taking the place of these well-paid third-rate artists and giving a major speech.

Multiple performers, including Bret Michaels of Poison and singer Martina McBride, canceled their appearances after facing backlash from fans and associates. They stated the event had evolved into something more divisive than the "musical celebration of our country" they were initially led to believe. The Commodores, Young MC, Morris Day, and Milli Vanilli also pulled out, with some citing the event's political undertones and their commitment to neutrality and global peace.

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This objective has evolved into something that sows much more division.

Trump responded to the withdrawals by announcing on Truth Social that he would take the place of the departing artists and deliver a "major speech." He also instructed his team to explore turning the event into an "America is back" rally, seemingly confirming the artists' concerns about the fair's political agenda.

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But that turned out to be misleading.

Initially, artists believed they were participating in a non-partisan celebration. However, the involvement of Keith Krach, a confidant of Trump from his previous administration, and the event's clear political framing, led to the cancellations. Artists like Vanilla Ice, Flo Rida, and C+C Music Factory remain scheduled to perform, with the latter emphasizing their apolitical stance.

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We are neutral. We stand for global love and peace.