America's Ugly Birthday Battle

6 hours ago

The Trump administration withdrew $50 million in funding from the bipartisan America250 group, citing concerns over taxpayer money being wasted, with only $25 million delivered so far.
Trump established a rival group, Freedom 250, to organize celebrations more aligned with his vision, leading to conflicts and accusations of partisanship over the semiquincentennial events.
Key events like the Great American State Fair on the National Mall and a June 24 rally are being reshaped as explicitly political, with Trump at the center, while bipartisan plans are sidelined.
Financial disputes include allegations of mismanagement by America250, while Freedom 250 receives federal funds and corporate sponsorships, deepening the rift between the two groups.
The Smithsonian has relocated its Festival of Festivals to 27 states and two territories, distancing itself from the political controversy in Washington.

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