US President Donald Trump held a rally with strong electoral tones in Washington, during the opening of the "Great American State Fair", the fair that marks the start of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States.
"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 thousands of supporters gathered on the National Mall.
The event, conceived as a traditional American fair with exhibits of states, fun toys, a Ferris wheel and a rodeo, took place amid controversy after several invited artists refused to perform. After the boycott, Trump announced that the ceremony would be accompanied by music selected by his staff and not by artists who, according to him, "constantly complain."
Singers Lee Greenwood and Christopher Macchio, known for their frequent appearances at Trump events, performed on stage. One of the most special moments of the evening was the passing of B-2 bombers and F-35 fighter jets over the crowd, which was accompanied by applause from the participants.
Meanwhile, several Democratic-led states, including Massachusetts, Illinois, Oregon, Washington and Connecticut, refused to participate in the event, arguing that the celebrations had taken on a clearly political and partisan character.
According to recent polls, Americans remain divided on how the 250th anniversary of independence is being celebrated. Only 40% of citizens express pride in this anniversary, while the differences between Republicans and Democrats are pronounced.
The rally comes at a time when Trump is struggling in the polls, largely due to the war with Iran and rising fuel prices. According to a Reuters/Ipsos poll, only one in four Americans believes that military intervention against Iran was worth it, while support for the president has plummeted.
However, his electoral base remains loyal. During the event, there was no shortage of hats with the slogan "Trump 2028", American flags and calls in support of the president.
In his speech, Trump promised peace in the Middle East, lower gas prices, tighter border controls and the continuation of conservative policies. He declared that his administration was achieving “victory after victory” and attacked political opponents, stressing that the US had defeated “fascism and communism” before and would be able to do so again.
The event became a demonstration of political strength for Trump, who sought to mobilize his supporters at a time when he faces growing criticism and new challenges in American public opinion.