A Republican state lawmaker from Gadsden is criticizing Alabama’s display at the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., calling it the “weakest of all the states and territories represented.”
Rep. Craig Lipscomb, on his campaign’s Facebook page, criticized the exhibit for lacking the memorable, interactive experiences featured by many other states. He also called on state officials to improve the display before the fair concludes July 10 on the National Mall.
“While other pavilions are creating memorable, interactive experiences that celebrate their unique culture and inspire tourism, Alabama’s presence consists primarily of a small collection of easel displays, peanuts, foam golf balls, and a looping playlist of only a handful of songs,” Lipscomb wrote on social media.
Lipscomb did not return a phone call seeking comment Monday. He said on Facebook that his criticism was based on feedback from several constituents who visited the fair.
He praised exhibits from Florida and the Dominican Republic as examples of more engaging displays.
“Florida is distributing plush alligators, the Dominican Republic is teaching visitors to salsa dance, and many other exhibits are offering immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression,” he wrote.
Lipscomb said Alabama’s exhibit could better showcase the state’s musical heritage, civil rights history and outdoor recreation. He urged state officials to make changes before the event ends.
That does not appear likely.
Responding to questions about Lipscomb’s criticism, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey’s spokesperson, Gina Maiola, referred to a June 25 news release outlining the state’s exhibit. She said Alabama is proud to participate in the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration in the nation’s capital.
“People from all over the world will be able to witness our state’s diverse strengths and rich history,” Ivey said.
“From agricultural heritage to pivotal moments in the civil rights movement, Alabama has redefined liberty and equality in America. Our pavilion invites visitors to experience the notable people and milestones that have shaped our state and our nation, and I am grateful to President Trump for inviting the states to be part of the Great American State Fair.”
According to the governor’s office, Alabama’s exhibit features agricultural products, aerospace and defense displays, civil rights tributes and a soundtrack highlighting the state’s musical legacy. It also includes a larger-than-life cutout of Ivey, interactive photo opportunities and Alabama-themed giveaways.
At least 10 states are not participating in the fair with official pavilions or delegations, citing reasons that include cost and political concerns over the event’s ties to President Donald Trump. Fair organizers, however, say all 50 states and six U.S. territories are represented in some capacity.
The fair, which opened June 25, has drawn criticism after images circulated on social media showing what critics described as sparse attendance, despite claims by Trump and his allies that crowds have been strong. The event opened with a rally featuring Trump that critics also said was overly political.
The 16-day event is organized by Freedom 250, a White House-backed organization that critics say bypassed an existing bipartisan group established years earlier to coordinate the nation’s semiquincentennial celebrations.
