Key facts
- Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene stated that UFC fights are not appropriate for the White House lawn.
- Greene also voiced concerns that taxpayer funds should not be used for the event.
- The event is scheduled to celebrate President Trump's 80th birthday and the nation's 250th anniversary.
- Preparations for the event have cost upwards of $60 million.
- A federal judge recently declined to block the event.
- UFC's parent company stated it would not profit from the event.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has voiced her opinion that hosting UFC fights on the White House lawn is inappropriate, particularly for President Trump's 80th birthday celebration. Greene stated that while she enjoys watching UFC, she does not believe it belongs on the White House grounds and expressed concern over the use of taxpayer funds for such an event.
The event, planned as part of the celebrations for the nation's 250th anniversary, is a significant undertaking with an estimated cost of over $60 million for preparations. It is set to feature six prime-time fights in a large Octagon-shaped ring on the South Lawn, with thousands of spectators expected on-site and many more watching remotely.
Despite some public enthusiasm, the event has faced skepticism due to its perceived political undertones and corporate branding. A recent poll indicated that a majority of Americans find the event inappropriate for the White House. However, a federal judge has declined to halt the event, ruling that the plaintiffs lacked legal standing to challenge it.
Officials from UFC's parent company, TKO, have stated that the organization will not profit from the event. UFC President Dana White and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a public-private partnership for the event.