Story perspectives

Trump asks taxpayers to fund Freedom 250 security, Merkley protests

7/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump asked for money to reimburse the National Park Service for Rededicate 250 prayer ceremony, State Fair and July Fourth Salute at National Mall.
The Interior Department said the funds would cover security after threats, including a House event and an alleged assassination attempt at the Dinner.
Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley called the request unacceptable, warning it would make taxpayers bail out Freedom 250 despite a $150 million appropriation.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump asked for money to reimburse the National Park Service for Rededicate 250 prayer ceremony, State Fair and July Fourth Salute at National Mall.
The Interior Department said the funds would cover security after threats, including a House event and an alleged assassination attempt at the Dinner.
Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley called the request unacceptable, warning it would make taxpayers bail out Freedom 250 despite a $150 million appropriation.