Plans for a large-scale national celebration marking the 250th anniversary of American independence are facing new challenges after several states announced they will not participate in the Great American State Fair, a signature event backed by President Donald Trump. The fair is scheduled to take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and is intended to showcase all U.S. states and territories through exhibits, cultural programs and public events.

According to CNN, officials from multiple states have declined invitations to help organize or staff state pavilions at the event. Reports indicate that Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Oregon and Washington have opted out, while some other states have continued evaluating their participation.

State officials cited a combination of budget concerns and logistical challenges associated with maintaining a presence at the more than two-week event. Some leaders also expressed concern that the celebration, organized through the White House-backed Freedom 250 initiative, has become increasingly political rather than serving as a broadly nonpartisan commemoration of the nation's founding.

Event organizers have emphasized that every state and territory will still be represented, potentially through tourism agencies, local organizations or private partners. Despite the withdrawals, preparations for the fair continue ahead of its planned opening later this month as part of nationwide America 250 celebrations.