Secretary of State Marco Rubio offered a controversial defense of President Donald Trump's planned Ultimate Fighting Championship event on the White House's South Lawn, scheduled for Trump's 80th birthday, as legal challenges and political backlash mount.
Rubio's Remarks at State Department Ceremony
During a UFC signing ceremony at the State Department on Thursday, Rubio characterized the event, which a recent court filing says will cost more than $60 million, as a gift to the American people. The event is part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of America's founding and is set for Sunday.
The White House is the People's House, Rubio argued, emphasizing that the America 250 celebration belongs to all citizens. He noted that millions of Americans who are not focused on politics or financial markets deeply love the sport of mixed martial arts. For them to witness this event with the White House as a backdrop during the nation's birthday celebration is, in his view, a meaningful gift.
Rubio stated that Sunday's event is about giving Americans the opportunity to see their White House in their capital city on their nation's birthday, hosting a historic event. He expressed the administration's happiness to be part of that celebration.
Public Opinion and Legal Challenges
Despite Rubio's enthusiastic endorsement, a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll revealed that only 16% of Americans consider the event appropriate and approve of Trump hosting it at the White House. The event has also drawn a lawsuit from the Public Integrity Project, filed on behalf of two Virginia residents, arguing that the event is unlawful.
The Trump administration has asked a federal judge to reject the bid to halt Sunday's fight card, contending that the lawsuit was filed too late to allow for any changes. The White House previously dismissed the legal action as an obstructionist, baseless, and dilatory attempt to prevent the event from taking place.
