Gator's Tilt-a-Whirl Also Drops Out of Trump's Great American State Fair
Gator: "This is not about politics."
Bret Michaels has become the fifth artist to bail on Trump’s Great American State Fair, joining Morris Day+Time, Young MC, Martina McBride, and The Commodores. In a lengthy statement posted to social media early Friday, Michaels explained that his “shows have never been about politics.” - Consequence of Sound
After careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw Gator’s Tilt-A-Whirl from the Great American State Fair. This was not an easy call. But the event does not align with our principles as an organization that includes one man and several tons of uninsurable machinery.
This opportunity was first presented to me as a $5,000 check. After my hootin’ and hollerin’ had subsided, I requested more details. I was told it was a nonpartisan celebration of America's 250th birthday, honoring hardworking Americans from all walks of life. Well, making folks like that hurl is exactly what this carnival ride has been about ever since I bought it at a probate auction back in 2023.
Unfortunately, what was presented to me as a celebration of our country has evolved into something much more divisive. Gator’s Tilt-A-Whirl is an inclusive experience where anyone is welcome, as long as you’re between 30 and 82 inches tall. (The previous owner once had to turn away Shaquille O’Neal for decapitation-related concerns.) This ride has never been about politics. It is about giving people — all people — a chance to spin rapidly in a circle.
My decision is unrelated to any possible backlash for appearing, as well as probable subsequent backlash to the original backlash. It is about staying true to what I have always believed in: the dignity of the Tilt, the sanctity of the Whirl, and a ride experience that unifies people over a trash can afterward — not tearing each other apart, but vomiting together.
To the people of Washington, D.C., who were looking forward to riding: I am sorry. I hope to return to the National Mall someday for an event worthy of Gator’s Tilt-A-Whirl.
In the meantime, we will next appear July 11th through 13th at the Okefenokee Hog Byproduct Expo, in Waycross, Georgia. Join us!
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