Secretary Duffy criticized for slur at Trump rally

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy used a speech at a rally for President Donald Trump on Wednesday to criticize musicians who withdrew from a planned concert and to deliver a broader message about family values, drawing significant criticism for his use of a derogatory political slur. The event on the National Mall was part of the kickoff for the Great American State Fair, a multi-day celebration organized for the nation's 250th anniversary.

In his remarks, Duffy praised the military performers, including the U.S. Marine Band and the U.S. Army Band, who provided entertainment. He then contrasted them with the original lineup of artists, stating they were "way better than those libtards that canceled on us." He added that President Trump would make the military performers famous. The comment was met with cheers from the rally audience but was swiftly condemned online by critics, activists, and political commentators who called the language from a cabinet secretary inappropriate and divisive.

The slur referenced a series of high-profile cancellations that have affected the event, which is run by the nonprofit Freedom 250. Multiple artists, including country star Martina McBride,...