North Carolina skips official booth at Great American State Fair; private sponsors fund display whose Confederate flags are later removed

Rep. , accused Gov. , of choosing partisanship over patriotism by declining to sponsor a booth at the Great American State Fair. Fox News reported that Edwards rejected the state's explanation of fiscal constraints and called the decision a political statement.

And runs until July 10, 2026. Every state received exhibition space, with each day featuring a different theme celebrating American history and culture. The event is hosted by the Trump-aligned organization Freedom 250.

A spokesperson for the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources told The New York Times that limited resources are focused on America 250 events across the state, including one at the State Capitol in Raleigh on July 4. Edwards said he does not believe the budget concerns and stated it is "unbelievably unfortunate" that Stein chose not to send representation.

Rhode Island, Vermont, Massachusetts, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington are among the other states that opted out.

Govs. , cited concerns that the event would be overly partisan. Several private sponsors stepped in to fund the North Carolina booth. The display initially included several Confederate flags, which fair organizers later removed.

Stein said in a written statement, "This flag does not represent the North Carolina that we love. America 250 is about unity and bringing our nation together.