Donald Trump's wild week as he limbers up for a massive White House fight. Blood will be spilled on the grounds of the White House for the first time since 1812, all in celebration of Trump's 80th birthday. Here's how he has been preparing for the big day.
Trump's UFC Birthday Party Faces Obstacles
Thousands of Trump cronies, MAGA faithful, and UFC enthusiasts are set to gather on the grounds of the White House to watch a cage fight on the South Lawn. However, with days to go, the event faced cancellation for two reasons. First, an open-air event with a huge spider-shaped metal scaffolding lighting rig in Washington DC in June risks thunderstorms. Second, a lawsuit from two Virginia residents argued that the Trump administration bypassed federal rules to host the privately-run event on government property. The Justice Department called the lawsuit obstructionist, but US District Judge Amit Mehta ruled that the plaintiffs unreasonably delayed bringing suit. The event will likely proceed, with UFC and sponsors having spent $60 million.
World Cup Controversy
The World Cup kicks off in the US, Mexico, and Canada. An early signal of risks came when Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was denied entry to the US despite a diplomatic passport and valid visa. Trump has previously made racist remarks about Somali immigrants. FIFA did not intervene, and the International Olympic Committee is watching closely ahead of the LA games.
Iran Peace 'Closer Than Ever'
Trump's position on the Iran deal fluctuated. He called into Fox News, claiming Iran is desperate to make a deal, but later a tentative agreement was reached. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the US and Iran have agreed on a final text, with peace never closer. However, skepticism remains given previous false starts.
Trump Booed at NBA Finals
At Game 3 of the NBA Finals in New York, Trump was greeted with lusty and thunderous boos at Madison Square Garden. Fans had to arrive two hours early for the expensive tickets, and the Knicks lost to the San Antonio Spurs, breaking a 13-game winning streak. Trump claimed the boos were shouts of 'trooooo ump,' but the reception was clearly negative.
