Kotek cancels Oregon role in national 250 fair, but you can still be involved

By Oregon State Republican Party,

Oregonians were disappointed to hear that Governor Tina Kotek declined the opportunity to promote Oregon’s business, industry, art, culture, and history at the Freedom 250 Great American State Fair. Freedom 250 built a 25′ x 30′ exhibit booth for every state at no charge to the states, but Oregonians will miss the chance to showcase our state, thanks to Gov. Kotek’s decision.

Despite Leftist claims, the June 25 – July 5 event in Washington D.C. is strictly non-partisan, and the nonprofit 501(c)(3) sponsor prohibits political campaigning and partisan messaging within state pavilions. It will bring together the culture and contributions of individual American states in honor of the founding of our nation and the enduring principle of e pluribus unum — out of many, one.

Driven by the desire to showcase Oregon to the nation and the world, a group of Oregon Republicans, industry leaders, and patriotic citizens leapt into action at Kotek’s announcement to explore a private-sector effort to fill the void left by her last-minute withdrawal. Despite high enthusiasm and determination, the Governor’s late withdrawal made it impossible to meet the necessary timeline and logistical requirements to organize an Oregon exhibit. Consequently, Oregonians will be unable to represent our state at this national event.

While Governor Kotek’s administration has chosen not to promote Oregon at the national level, the Oregon Republican Party is actively encouraging citizens to celebrate Freedom 250 within their local communities. To support these efforts, we are providing the Freedom 250 Toolkit on our website at https://oregon.gop/freedom-250/.

This resource is filled with ideas, planning materials, and event concepts designed for civic organizations, schools, churches, businesses, and community leaders to use in commemorating America’s semi-quincentennial.

We think freedom and Oregon are worth celebrating, don’t you?