Interior Secretary Admits Lack of Knowledge on Trump’s July 4 ‘Vanity Projects’ Amid Funding Controversy

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has played a central role in advancing President Donald Trump’s plans for America’s 250th anniversary, including the creation of Freedom250, a public-private partnership established within his department. Yet during congressional testimony on Wednesday, Burgum claimed ignorance of how Freedom250 was formed.

Critics argue the Trump administration is violating federal law and bypassing congressional oversight by redirecting funds from America250—a congressionally authorized nonprofit organizing the nation’s semiquincentennial—to Freedom250. The latter is a limited liability corporation launched in December under the National Park Foundation, a nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, which operates under the Interior Department.

At a House Natural Resources Committee hearing reviewing Interior’s budget request, Colorado Rep. Jared Huffman, the panel’s top Democrat, pressed Burgum for details on the decision-making process behind Freedom250. The exchange underscored concerns over secrecy and resistance to oversight in the Trump administration.

“Do you know who did? Who made that decision? Who ordered it?” Huffman asked.

“I’m not aware of the final decision maker on Freedom250,” Burgum replied.

Unlike America250, Freedom250 is not legally required to host bipartisan events and has not disclosed its spending to lawmakers. This year, it has assumed control over several high-profile, Trump-aligned events tied to the anniversary, including:

• A prayer festival on the National Mall on Sunday, described by administration officials as celebrating “Christian values”;
• An MMA fight at the White House on Trump’s birthday;
• An IndyCar race around the Mall in August.

While Trump has urged corporations—many seeking his political support—to fund Freedom250, the Interior Department is also reportedly redirecting taxpayer money to the group. Neither Freedom250 nor Interior has provided financial transparency.

During the hearing, Burgum defended a budget request that includes substantial cuts to most of his department, including the National Park Service. However, he also sought $10 billion for a general fund, which the administration claims will beautify federal land in Washington in celebration of the 250th anniversary. Burgum insisted the funds would not cover a 250-foot arch Trump wants built by the Potomac River or the $1 billion proposed for a new White House ballroom, which would require demolishing the East Wing.

Democrats, however, labeled the $10 billion fund a “slush fund” for Trump’s “vanity projects.” The administration has awarded lucrative contracts to firms reportedly favored by the president in connection with the anniversary plans.