Trump pushes to lead America's 250th birthday events

President Trump said he does not need musical acts that have pulled out of concerts marking America's 250th anniversary.

"I don't want so-called 'artists' that get paid far too much money, who aren't happy," he wrote on Truth Social. "I only want to be surrounded by happy people, smart people, successful people and people that know how to win."

Trump told his representatives to explore making him the main attraction at a planned 16-day "Great American State Fair" on the National Mall later this month. It is unclear whether the concerts will instead become what he has described as a "giant Make America Great Again Rally."

Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump has noted that his second term coincides with several national milestones, including the World Cup, the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the country's 250th birthday. He has shown particular interest in the anniversary events.

Congress created an "America 250" commission a decade ago to oversee the celebrations. Trump-backed groups later formed a separate "Freedom 250" committee to run their own events. Those include the state fair on the National Mall, a UFC fight at the White House, a fitness competition in Orlando, Florida, an August Grand Prix race through Washington streets and what Trump calls the world's largest fireworks display on the Fourth of July.

Trump has posted about the events on social media, including AI-generated images of himself waving a flag at the race and standing beside a fighting ring at the White House. The official America 250 program has focused on smaller activities such as art exhibits and local block parties.

Trump has also directed repairs and upgrades around Washington. Fountains in Sheridan Circle, Meridian Park and Columbus Circle have been fixed. Lafayette Park is closed for renovations. Crews are resurfacing the reflecting pool between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, and four bronze horse statues near Memorial Bridge will receive 23.75-karat gold leaf. Streets have been repaved and lamp posts repainted.

At last week's Cabinet meeting, Trump spent more than 20 minutes discussing the work. "I love construction," he said. "DC is looking beautiful."

Last month the US Commission of Fine Arts approved a 250-foot triumphal arch across the Potomac from the Lincoln Memorial, though the project still needs further approvals and faces legal challenges.

The Treasury has approved a commemorative gold coin showing Trump at a desk. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the department is also preparing a special $250 note with Trump's image, which would require congressional approval.

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the currency plan. "Get over yourself," he wrote on X. "The upcoming July 4th anniversary is not about a wannabe king. It is about celebrating the American journey."