Just one day after the Great American State Fair unveiled its lineup, several artists have pulled out of the Trump-backed event, citing its political ties. The fair, scheduled for June 25 to July 10 on the National Mall, is part of the nationwide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It is being organized by Freedom 250, a public-private partnership established by President Donald Trump.
Freedom 250 CEO Keith Krach named nine artists slated to perform, including Martina McBride, C+C Music Factory, The Commodores, Vanilla Ice and Flo Rida. However, within hours, three acts distanced themselves. Rapper Young MC wrote on Instagram that he would not perform, stating artists were never told about the political involvement. Morris Day of The Time also announced he would not participate, writing "It's a no for me." The Commodores declined, saying they choose not to affiliate with any single political party.
Additionally, Jodie Rocco of "The Real Milli Vanilli" told the Associated Press that neither she nor other members had been invited, despite being listed as performers. Fab Morvan, who composed the original Milli Vanilli duo, has obtained rights to the name and performs as a live band. Freedom Williams of C+C Music Factory initially threatened to drop out but later said he might perform out of spite, while co-founder Robert Clivillés distanced the group from Williams's political views.
Freedom 250 was created by the Trump administration to handle the year-long celebrations. The organisation presents itself as nonpartisan, but detractors point to its connections to Trump. It is funded by Trump-aligned tech firms Oracle and Palantir, along with federal contractors Lockheed Martin and Deloitte, raising concerns among lawmakers and watchdog groups.
