WASHINGTON (AP) —President Trump on Thursday evening allowed first lady to light the National Christmas Tree.
“The first lady is going to do the honors,” Trump said.
He counted down from five to zero, and Melania Trump stepped forward and pressed a button that made the tree behind them sparkle with gold-toned lights.
“It’s a beauty,” Trump said.
In brief remarks, he touched on the peace deal signed earlier Thursday between Rwanda and Congo, mentioned false claims about the 2020 election being “rigged,” and said he’s happy his terms weren’t consecutive because he will be in office when the World Cup and the Summer Olympics are held in the United States next year.
Trump also offered thanks to those who serve people in need as well as police and other law enforcement officers, first responders and Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol agents.
The president also discussed the two National Guard members who were shot, one fatally, near the White House the day before Thanksgiving.