Trump, GOP leaders meet at White House as president plans visit to NC, defends executive orders
Congressional Republican leaders convened with President Donald Trump on Tuesday for a White House summit. This marked their first meeting with the president since he began his second term. Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota and House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana were expected to address the press to discuss the details of their discussions.
The meeting comes after Trump clashed with some congressional Republicans late last year during a potential government shutdown, which was narrowly avoided. Other Republican leaders present at the meeting included House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota, and House GOP Conference Chair Lisa McClain of Michigan.
During a press briefing following the meeting, Trump mentioned his executive orders renaming Mt. Denali and the Gulf of Mexico. He explained that President William McKinley deserved to have his name reinstated on North America’s highest peak, citing McKinley’s role as the “tariff king” and his contributions to the U.S. economy.
Trump also expressed his willingness to collaborate with congressional Republicans to advance his agenda through legislative channels. He highlighted the importance of working together to achieve common goals and priorities.
When questioned about pardoning individuals involved in the January 6 events, Trump acknowledged the wrongness of assaulting a police officer. However, he pointed out the lack of similar outrage towards individuals involved in violent protests in Portland and Minneapolis following George Floyd’s death.
Trump also announced plans to visit North Carolina and California in the near future. He referenced the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in the Smokie Mountains and criticized Democratic leaders for what he perceived as neglect of affected areas.
In discussing the wildfires in Los Angeles, Trump criticized Democratic policies and their impact on the state. He raised concerns about inadequate water supply for fire hydrants and implied that Democratic failures had led to the party’s political downfall in California.
As Trump prepares to visit California, he may encounter Senator Adam Schiff, a longtime political adversary. Schiff, now serving as California’s junior senator, has been a vocal critic of the former president.
Overall, the meeting between congressional Republican leaders and President Trump signals a renewed focus on collaboration and policy initiatives. The discussions held during the summit are expected to shape future legislative efforts and strategic partnerships within the Republican Party.
**Author**: Charles Creitz is a reporter for Fox News Digital. He covers media, politics, and culture for the platform. Charles joined Fox News in 2013 and holds a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism from Temple University. Story tips can be directed to charles.creitz@fox.com.
