The White House - 1600 Daily: ‘Nothing more or less than a recognition of reality’

President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence deliver a statement on Jerusalem | December 6, 2017 (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead) 

‘Nothing more or less than a recognition of reality’
President Donald J. Trump made headlines around the world yesterday by announcing the United States will officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The President also directed the State Department to begin preparations to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
“When I came into office, I promised to look at the world’s challenges with open eyes and very fresh thinking,” the President said. “Old challenges demand new approaches.”
The decision drew praise even from frequent critics of the Administration. National Review’s David French called it one of President Trump’s “best, most moral, and important decisions” that “strikes a blow against international anti-Semitism.”

“This is nothing more, or less, than a recognition of reality,” President Trump said.

“It is also the right thing to do.”

Read the President’s full remarks here.

Remembering the second worst attack on American soil
Today marks the 76th anniversary of the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor that claimed 2,403 American lives on a single day in 1941. The President’s latest video tells the story of that fateful event that plunged America into World War II.

“We remember the lives that were lost, the families torn from loved ones, and the heroes who rose to America’s defense,” the President said. “As the smoke billowed that day from our sinking ships, our entire nation rose up to show our enemies America’s unbending strength, might, and resolve.”

Watch President Trump’s video message on Pearl Harbor here.

‘What it means to have hope’
Continuing to celebrate December’s spirit of giving, First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Karen Pence visited hurricane-damaged areas of Texas yesterday to meet first responders, visit families in the process of rebuilding, and assist volunteers with their ongoing efforts to help victims. One family in particular, the Zamoranos, offers all of us a stirring example of courage this holiday season.

“I am so impressed by your positive attitudes and resilient spirit,” the First Lady said. “Your family is an example of what it means to have hope.”

See pictures from the First Lady and Second Lady’s visit yesterday.

POTUS TODAY

Today, President Trump is meeting with Republican members of the Senate, Congressional leadership, and the Chairwoman of the Republican National Committee.
This afternoon, the President also will sign a proclamation for National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

COMING UP

On Saturday, the President will attend the opening celebration for the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.