President Trump will host seven UFC fights on the White House lawn on Sunday. The event coincides with his 80th birthday, Flag Day and celebrations for America's 250th anniversary.
The fights are part of a larger series of events planned for the anniversary. These include a rally on the Mall where Trump will speak and an IndyCar race on the streets of Washington, D.C.
Trump has also focused on several building projects in the capital. He has torn down the East Wing of the White House to construct a ballroom and military complex. Additional plans call for a massive arch near Arlington National Cemetery and a pedestrian bridge beside the Lincoln Memorial.
A watchdog group filed a lawsuit last week seeking to halt the fights. The suit cites potential profits for UFC and notes that Trump owns stock in the company that owns the organization. The White House has stated there is no conflict of interest because the president's assets are held in a trust managed by his children.
Political analysts have described the emphasis on these projects and the event as unusual amid ongoing challenges including the war in Iran and inflation above 4 percent.
