“This should be about celebrating the greatest country in the history of Earth,” Baumgartner said. “Washington state is a part of that story of America.”
One of Washington's Republican members of Congress is accusing Gov. Bob Ferguson of letting politics overshadow patriotism after the state largely sat out the Great American State Fair, held as part of America's 250th anniversary celebration.
Speaking on The Ari Hoffman Show on Talk Radio 570 KVI, Rep. Michael Baumgartner (R-WA) said he visited the Washington exhibit only to find an almost empty display that shared space with Oregon while other states showcased their industries, history, and culture.
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"This should be about celebrating the greatest country in the history of Earth," Baumgartner said. "Washington state is a part of that story of America."
Instead of leaving the booth vacant, Baumgartner began greeting visitors and stamping commemorative passports himself—provided they first said, "Go Seahawks."
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"I'm not a Democrat. I'm a Republican. We have standards and we hold people to account," he joked.
The decision not to fully participate came despite other blue states investing heavily in their exhibits. According to Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, Washington declined because participation could cost between $100,000 and $1 million, saying the state chose to focus its limited resources on local America 250 events.
Baumgartner argued the move sent the wrong message. "I thought, 'God, our state deserves better,'" he said.
He said his office was inundated with calls from Washingtonians who wanted to volunteer, donate materials, or help staff the exhibit after learning the state wouldn't.
Baumgartner also contrasted Washington's display with Idaho's, which featured exhibits sponsored by companies including Micron, Simplot, and Idaho National Laboratory.
"Washington should have been celebrating the patriotism of our wonderful country and taking every opportunity to put its best foot forward," Baumgartner said. "It's unfortunate that didn't happen."
The criticism comes as Ferguson continues to face scrutiny from conservatives over decisions they argue prioritize partisan politics over promoting Washington's economy, tourism, and national image.
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