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President Trump spoke June 24 on the National Mall to launch the 16-day Great American State Fair. Military flyovers and performances marked the start of U.S. 250th anniversary events running through July 10.
nypost.comPresident Trump addressed a crowd on the National Mall on June 24 to open the 16-day Great American State Fair commemorating the United States' 250th anniversary. Red, white and blue F-16 Vipers, a B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber and F-35 Lightning II jets conducted flyovers during the event near the Washington Monument.
The U.S. Marine Band, the Army rock band Downrange, Christopher Macchio and Lee Greenwood performed.
"Tonight, as we stand on the edge of our 250th year of independence, I am thrilled to declare that America is back," Trump said. He added that the United States has the largest economy, strongest military, most powerful technology and greatest culture on Earth.
"This is the very beginning of the Golden Age of America. We’re in the Golden Age," Trump stated.
Trump referenced repairs at Union Station, Meridian Hill Park, Lafayette Square and the Reflecting Pool. He also cited provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill, his immigration policies and a memorandum of understanding he said would end the Iran war.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy spoke at the event. Trump previewed a large Fourth of July fireworks display along with the Patriot Games and a Freedom 250 Grand Prix race.
The fair will include 150 exhibits from all 56 states and territories and runs through July 10.
Responsible StatecraftThe Senate voted 50-48 on Tuesday to approve a concurrent resolution directing President Trump to cease hostilities with Iran. The measure passed after ten prior attempts and now joins House approval, marking the first time both chambers have backed such a resolution.
The June 24 meeting focused on European defense spending and allied support during the Iran conflict. Rutte presented data on spending increases since 2017 while addressing U.S. concerns over participation.
President Trump stated at a June 24, 2026 rally that further U.S. military action could occur after operations in Iran and Venezuela. He referenced Cuba as a possible next target but gave no timeline or details.