President Donald Trump turned what could have been a routine Oval Office signing ceremony into a moment of classic Trump-era theater — blending humor, patriotism, and a jab at the legacy media — while announcing a bold celebration of American motorsports ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday.
On January 30, Trump signed an executive order authorizing the first-ever IndyCar street race in Washington, D.C., a high-octane tribute to American innovation and competitive spirit. But it was an exchange with ABC News correspondent Karen Travers that quickly stole headlines and underscored the president’s ongoing battle with what he calls a hostile press.
As Trump spoke enthusiastically about the upcoming “Freedom 250 Grand Prix,” Travers attempted to pivot the conversation to his $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS and Treasury Department over the leak of his tax returns. Trump wasn’t having it.
“You’re a loud person, very loud. Let somebody else have a chance,” the president shot back, cutting off the interruption and moving to another reporter. When Travers persisted, Trump dismissed ABC as “fake news” and “truly one of the worst,” repeating the phrase as he redirected attention to the historic racing announcement.
Supporters saw the moment as emblematic of Trump’s refusal to let media antagonists hijack celebratory events with political gotcha questions. Critics may clutch their pearls, but many Americans watching saw a president focused on promoting a uniquely American spectacle rather than indulging yet another press skirmish.
And the spectacle promises to be massive.
According to the executive order, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix will take place August 21–23 and feature a street course winding near the National Mall. The race is designed to honor America’s semiquincentennial, showcasing both the capital city and a sport deeply rooted in American culture.
“For over 100 years, American INDYCAR racing has set the pace for motor sports,” the order reads. “With speeds topping over 200 miles per hour, the cars and drivers inspire awe and respect in all who watch this quintessentially American sport.”
The document highlights icons such as A.J. Foyt and Mario Andretti while noting the Indianapolis 500 remains the largest single-day sporting event in the world — a reminder that American racing is not niche entertainment but a global cultural export.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy embraced the symbolism. “Freedom doesn’t ring, it revs,” Duffy said. “INDYCAR is about competition and pushing limits — the same things that have always defined America. There’s no better place to celebrate our 250th anniversary than bringing that energy to the nation’s capital.”
Motorsports legend Roger Penske echoed the excitement, calling the event a historic honor. “President Trump has bestowed an incredible distinction upon our sport,” Penske said. “This will be a truly memorable event that celebrates our country’s independence and the legacy of patriotism, innovation, and excellence that powers motorsports across America.”
For Trump supporters, the moment represented more than a press spat. It was a reminder of the administration’s emphasis on national pride, cultural celebration, and unapologetic resistance to media narratives. While reporters tried to drag the spotlight back to controversy, the president kept it squarely on horsepower, heritage, and a 250-year American milestone roaring into view.
