These music stars pull out of President Trump’s Freedom 250 concert
Several artists scheduled to perform at the Great American State Fair, organized by President Donald Trump’s nonprofit organization Freedom 250, have pulled out of the event.
Two separate groups are planning celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary this year. So far, neither has been completely well-received.
The America250 and Freedom 250 groups have organized their own series of events and initiatives throughout the year in connection with the nation’s sesquicentennial.
Although both organizations are rooted in marking milestones, they are different because they are run by different people.
America 250 is a bipartisan commission run by Congress, and Freedom 250 is a quasi-governmental organization founded by President Donald Trump.
America250 and Freedom 250 are the two main groups planning this birthday, but they’re not the only ones. Other hyperlocal organizations also celebrate the event across the country.
So who is doing what? Here’s the breakdown.
What is the difference between America 250 and Freedom 250?
America250 was established by Congress in 2016.
According to the law, the American Semicentennial Commission is to “plan, encourage, develop and coordinate” commemorations of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
The commission is supported by the nonprofit America250.org, Inc., which includes private citizens, and works with lawmakers throughout the plan, according to its website.
Alternatively, Freedom 250 is run by the Trump administration.
In January 2025, the president established Task Force 250, a group of Cabinet members to plan events other than those run by the official America 250 Committee. Freedom 250 is a division of Task Force 250, a “public-private partnership,” according to the White House.
After President Trump announced the launch of Freedom 250 in December 2025, America 250 Board President Rosie Rios told USA TODAY that the group supports the president’s plan.
What kind of events are America250 and Freedom 250 planning?
Highlights of America250’s planned projects include field trip competitions for students, philanthropy, and record-setting volunteer efforts. Additionally, the group plans to bury a time capsule that will be opened on America’s 500th anniversary in 2276.
To find a local event near you, check out the America250 website.
As part of the president’s plan, Freedom 250 is organizing UFC matches on the White House lawn and athletic competitions for high school students. Last month, he also held a prayer event called “Rededicate 250” on the National Mall.
President Trump’s “Freedom 250,” a 16-day concert event planned, has also been the focus of criticism from several artists who were scheduled to perform but have since withdrawn.
What happened to the Freedom 250 at the Great American State Fair?
After the performer lineup for the 16-day Great American State Fair was announced on May 27, a number of artists dropped out of the event, some citing confusion over the event’s perceived political support and the content of their applications.
Country musician Martina McBride wrote to X that she was misled into thinking she would be performing at a “nonpartisan event.”
“I have had the opportunity to be a voice for those who felt they had no voice. I am deeply upset that my fans, who have been touched by my music, feel like I am abandoning the meaning behind those songs. I assure you that is not the case,” she wrote.
Bret Michaels said his exit was due to the “divisive” nature of the event.
“Unfortunately, what was presented to us as a celebration of our country has evolved into something far more divisive than what I agreed to be a part of,” he wrote in a lengthy Instagram post.
In response, President Trump announced on May 30 that he would be the show’s new headliner.
In a post on Truth Social, he criticized the musicians and said he would organize what he called an “America Is Back Rally” in their place.
More controversy regarding the Freedom 250
Apart from the concert, Freedom 250 itself has been at the center of criticism over funding transparency and religious expression.
The New York Times reported in February that Freedom 250 was suspected of trading access to President Trump for donations, sparking concerns among Congressional Democrats.
Some historians and religious experts have also raised alarm over the Trump administration’s almost exclusive emphasis on Christianity through several Freedom 250 initiatives, including prayer meetings.
Freedom 250 spokeswoman Rachel Reissner said in a May 28 statement to USA TODAY that the organization is “dedicated to uniting Americans in commemoration of our nation’s 250th anniversary.”
“Freedom 250 focuses on our signature celebrations and events that celebrate our history and engage all Americans, and we welcome all who share our goal of commemorating this milestone in a way that uplifts and unites America,” added Reisner.
Contributors: Saman Shafiq, Mike Snider, Karissa Waddick
Melina Khan is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. X Keep up with her at @melinakh and on Instagram @bymelinakhan.
