Rare moment with Melania Trump: The First Lady lit the national Christmas tree in Washington
Melania Trump lit the national Christmas tree Thursday night in one of her few public appearances in President Donald Trump's second term. The ceremony took place on the Ellipse, near the White House, on a frosty but exciting evening.
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At the annual ceremony, President Donald Trump invited the First Lady to turn on the tree lights, telling the crowd: “The first lady will do the honors“. Melania Trump, who has had a low-key role in this term, counted down from five to zero, then pressed the button that caused the tree to light up in a golden glow. “It's a beauty”the president exclaimed when the lights were turned on.
The atmosphere was complemented by a varied artistic program, with artists such as rock legends the Beach Boys, Christian music singer Matthew West and country performers Gabby Barrett, Jon Pardi, Alana Springsteen, Brett Young and Warren Zeiders.
The president's messages: peace, sport and gratitude
In a brief intervention, Donald Trump spoke about the peace agreement signed on the same day between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He added that he was glad his terms were not consecutive because it allows him to be in the White House when the United States hosts the soccer World Cup and the Summer Olympics next year.
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Melania Trump lit the national Christmas tree in Washington PHOTO AFP
The president thanked those who help those in need, as well as the police, emergency response teams, immigration and customs agents, and border agents “who risk their lives every day”.
A tribute to members of the National Guard
Trump also recalled the tragic incident that happened on the eve of Thanksgiving, when two members of the National Guard were shot near the White House, one of them losing his life. The president said he has spoken with the family of Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, who is recovering in hospital.
The ceremony ended in a festive atmosphere, officially marking the beginning of the holiday season in the American capital.
