Artists including Bret Michaels and Martina McBride withdraw from President Donald Trump’s “Freedom 250” concert series on Washington’s National Mall, as concerns grow about whether the events are political and whether performers face threats. Multiple outlets report that Michaels, the lead singer of Poison, cancels his scheduled appearance at the “Great American State Fair” celebration billed as a World Fair-style event for the United States’ 250th anniversary. Michaels cites divisiveness and threats as reasons for stepping back. The withdrawals follow earlier exits by other performers, including Young MC, and coverage notes that several artists publicly say they no longer plan to participate.
The Hollywood Reporter and others characterize the change as part of a broader talent pullout, with additional acts described as leaving the lineup. BBC News reports that Trump responds to the withdrawals by attacking the artists and considering whether he will attend himself. The New York Times reports that Trump names Lee Greenwood and Christopher Macchio as replacements for the departed performers, including those who had previously announced they would not take part.
