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The disappointing turn-out at the National Mall gathering is said to have angered the president.
Organizing a massive outdoor celebration during the peak of summer is always a gamble.
When the entire event hinges on public enthusiasm and flawless logistics, the pressure behind the scenes can quickly become overwhelming.
With the 250th anniversary of the United States approaching and Donald Trump planning a rally on the Fourth of July, White House aides are reportedly dealing with growing anxiety over the upcoming Independence Day celebration.
Insiders worry the venue will look largely empty following a disappointing turnout at a similar National Mall gathering last week, which, according to CNN, angered Trump.
Heat wave incoming
Organizers face an uphill battle.
A brutal heat wave is expected to bring triple-digit temperatures, while strict security measures will force visitors through extensive checkpoints.
It is a recipe for low turnout.
“I do not understand why we are doing this so late,” one White House official told CNN while discussing the schedule.
The official added, “I’m really not sure who thought this was a good idea.”
Papering over the gaps
To improve the optics, organizers are setting up a special ticketed viewing area right next to the stage. They hope this simple strategy will ensure the area appears full for the cameras. However, the plan has a major flaw because the tickets are free.
As CNN reported, “… the tickets are free, and another official familiar with the event noted that there is likely to be huge swaths of people who sign up to secure a spot but ultimately don’t show.”
Strict safety rules are also dampening the holiday spirit, as visitors are reportedly not allowed to bring their own coolers, forcing them to pay for drinks on-site.
A late-night show
According to Raw Story, the president has spent days urging his supporters to fill the venue. He recently acknowledged the brutal weather while boasting about his own stamina.
“On July 4, it’s going to be approximately 107 degrees out, and I’m going to go, and I’m going to make a really long speech just to show that I can do anything,” he said on Wednesday.
He also made a direct plea to supporters at a previous event. “Your favorite president will be speaking. So please show up because if we have two empty seats, you know what’s going to happen? The fake news is going to say, ‘He didn’t fill the arena.'”
