President Donald Trump has promoted his upcoming July Fourth rally on the National Mall as the peak of an “unforgettable birthday party,” but behind the scenes, White House officials are worried about low attendance. Sources told CNN that the small crowd at Trump’s recent campaign-style speech on the mall—which angered the president—has raised fears of a similar turnout for the Independence Day event.
The “Great American State Fair,” which has taken over the National Mall, has seen scattered crowds and several setbacks. Issues include triple-digit heat, tight security, and a schedule running late into the night. One White House official questioned the timing, saying, “I do not understand why we are doing this so late.”
Trump became furious after seeing an aerial photo of the sparse crowd at his June 24 speech, leading him to post on social media claiming the crowds were “packed to the brim.” The incident has prompted internal finger-pointing, with some in Trump’s circle wondering why more wasn’t done to drive attendance.
For the July Fourth address, the viewing area in front of the stage will be ticketed to ensure it is filled, but tickets are free, and officials worry many who sign up may not show. The event also includes a massive fireworks display aiming for a Guinness World Record, but attendees cannot bring coolers, and temperatures are forecast to reach 100 degrees.
Despite the challenges, White House spokesman Davis Ingle stated, “President Trump is ensuring that America gets the spectacular 250th birthday it deserves.” Trump is set to attend other events this week, including a dedication at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and a fireworks show at Mount Rushmore.
Presidential historian Timothy Naftali noted, “It’s legacy building. He wants to leave his stamp, he wants to leave his mark. He’s not a complicated man.”
