An IndyCar Race Around The Capital Would Be As American As It Gets. Democrats Are The Roadblock.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is trying to rev up support to host an IndyCar race on the National Mall in August as part of the country’s celebration of 250 years. The only problem? Democrats are trying to pump the brakes on the idea.

Fast cars and freedom sound like an all-American good time. Several backseat-driving Democrats, however, think it’s “absurd” for Congress to give the green light to an IndyCar race in D.C. when lawmakers won’t even extend health care subsidies, Punchbowl News reported.

The race needs Congress to pass a bill for the event because, currently, there’s a ban on advertising on the Capitol grounds. And what do race cars have all over? Ads.

A United States Department of Transportation spokesperson emphasized what the event would mean to commemorate America250.

“The Grand Prix is an unprecedented opportunity to celebrate our nation’s proud racing pedigree, showcase the beauty of the National Mall, and generate millions in critical tourism revenue for the Capital. The Trump Administration is determined to make D.C. great again, and this race is another example of that commitment. We’ll keep working with our partners in Congress to outline the positive impacts it will have on the District and correct the record.”

The America250 celebration is already set to have a much-anticipated live UFC event on the White House Lawn, the MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia, and the Patriot Games in Washington, D.C.

The proposed race would start at the Supreme Court and then do an entire lap around the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial. “Pit Row” would be set up by the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

The IndyCar Grand Prix idea has been floated to the aides of Speaker Mike Johnson, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

A bipartisan prix is worrisome to the Democrats, who seem to only know how to white-knuckle the steering wheel. They argue it puts a strain on the U.S. Capitol Police and the surrounding roads. Democrats also think Republicans haven’t been helpful to them, according to Punchbowl News. They aren’t too keen on this race because so far the GOP has refused to hang a plaque honoring the victims of the January 6 Capitol riot, an aide told the outlet.

IndyCar told The Daily Wire that new events are something the organization welcomes.

“We continue to work on new events for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Major East Coast markets – like Washington D.C. and several other large metro destinations – are priorities for us,” a spokesperson said.

IndyCar has races scheduled for August already, but none in Washington, D.C. Per the league’s schedule, Secretary Duffy’s target date of August 21 is open. Still, it seems there might be a few pit stops before this event gets to the finish line.