Tipsheet

Sarah Sanders Explains Exactly Why Trump Could Not Attend French Memorial Service

After President Donald Trump’s planned trip to Aisne Marne American Cemetery, an event to honor American casualties from World War I, was canceled, it set off a firestorm of liberals pouncing and seizing on the decision.

According to them, Trump did not want to deal with some light rain:

“It’s incredible that a president would travel to France for this significant anniversary — and then remain in his hotel room watching TV rather than pay in person his respects to the Americans who gave their lives in France for the victory gained 100 years ago tomorrow,” The Atlantic’s David Frum said, according to the Washington Post.

In response to the criticism, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders explained on Sunday the cancellation was based off safety and logistical challenges.

“Yesterday, because of near-zero visibility, Marine One was unable to fly, as planned,” Sanders said in a statement. “A car ride of two and a half hours, each way, would have required closures to substantial portions of Paris roadways for the President’s’ motorcade, on short notice.”

Sanders said because Trump did not “want to cause that kind of unexpected disruption,” it was best to not go.

“He was honored to be able to attend today’s event at the Suresnes American Cemetery and was deeply moved by the sacrifices of so many for the cause of freedom,” she added.

The statement is consistent to what White House reporters found:

While Trump was not in attendance for the visit, White House Chief of Staff John Kelly and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Joe Dunford went to the American cemetery.

The visit for the both of them, who had worked together when Kelly was in uniform, was significant because Saturday also marked the 243rd birthday of the United States Marine Corps.