A section of the main stage built for President Donald Trump's July 4th Freedom 250 celebration collapsed during a rehearsal, narrowly missing performers. Video circulating on social media shows dancers rehearsing when a piece of the overhead structure broke off and fell onto the stage. No injuries were reported.
The incident is the latest in a series of problems plaguing the Great American State Fair, a multi-week exposition on the National Mall. Critics have accused the administration of turning the semiquincentennial into a partisan event. Several musical acts, including Martina McBride and The Commodores, pulled out, claiming they were not informed of the political tone. Democratic-led states also declined to participate.
Attendees have reported sparse crowds, half-built structures, and long security lines. Aerial photos showing low turnout reportedly angered President Trump, who claimed on Truth Social that the event was 'packed to the brim' with 'at least 45,000 people.' News estimates suggest the actual crowd was far smaller.
White House officials now fear empty fields will overshadow Trump's July 4th address. To mitigate this, they plan to distribute tickets for the viewing area in front of the stage. However, high temperatures near 100 degrees Fahrenheit and possible thunderstorms may deter attendance. Organisers have not commented on the stage collapse or safety inspections.
