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United States President Donald Trump returned to the electoral campaign atmosphere with a large rally in Washington, during the opening of the 'Great American State Fair', the fair that marks the start of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of US Independence.
"America is back and this is just the beginning. America's destiny is to be the greatest nation this planet has ever seen ," Trump declared to supporters gathered on the National Mall.
The event was marred by controversy after several invited artists, including Bret Michaels, Young MC and the Commodores, refused to perform. In response, Trump announced on the social media site Truth Social that the ceremony would use "our playlist" and not the music of artists who, according to him, "only complain and put people to sleep."
Patriotic singer Lee Greenwood, tenor Christopher Macchio and a US military band performed on stage. One of the most spectacular moments was the flight over the crowd of B-2 bombers and F-35 fighter jets, while they performed "Hallelujah" and "Ave Maria."
Some countries refused to participate
Several Democratic-led states, including Massachusetts, Illinois, Oregon, Washington, Connecticut and North Carolina, did not send delegations to the fair. Local authorities argued that the event had taken on a political character and criticized the high participation fees.
According to an Associated Press/NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll, only 40% of Americans say they are proud of the country's 250th anniversary. The percentage reaches 70% among Republicans, but drops to 20% among Democrats and 30% among independent voters.
Trump faces declining approval ratings
The rally comes at a difficult time for the US president. According to a Reuters/Ipsos poll, only one in four Americans believes the war on Iran was worth it, while just 34% approve of Trump's performance over the last 17 months in office.
However, he continues to rely on his loyal electoral base. Hats with the slogan "Trump 2028" were not missing at the rally, as were those with the inscription "America is Back", sold at the fair for $ 40.
Trump also repeated his signature dance to the song YMCA, while supporters imitated him in front of the stage.
Political promises and messages
In his speech, the president promised to bring "peace to the Middle East," that the price of gasoline would drop to $2.15 per gallon, that illegal immigration would be stopped thanks to ICE agents, and that his administration had abolished the Department of Education.
He also reiterated his stance on gender issues, stating that there are "only two genders, male and female," and advocated banning medical treatments for transgender minors.
"Every day my administration is achieving one victory after another," Trump said, adding that "we have defeated fascism and communism and we will have to do it again."
Among the participants was David, a tennis instructor from Annapolis whose mother was born in Iran. He said the US military operation was necessary.
"For 47 years, no one has dared to do this," he said, acknowledging that the conflict has contributed to rising prices, but adding that Republicans could surprise in the upcoming midterm elections.
David stated that he was unaware of the political tensions between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Trump, while blaming the media for the way the situation is being presented.
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy also criticized foreign media during his speech. He said tourists visiting the US for the World Cup discover "the best food in the world" and "the best people," even though, according to him, the liberal media in their countries had convinced them that America was a bad place.
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