US President Donald Trump has confirmed he will not attend his son Donald Trump Jr's wedding, citing government responsibilities and his love for the United States. In a post on Truth Social, Trump offered congratulations but said he felt it important to remain in Washington, D.C., during this 'important period of time'.
Trump first hinted he might skip the event, reportedly taking place in the Bahamas over Memorial Day weekend, during a meeting with reporters on Thursday. He described the timing as 'not good' due to his administration's focus on Iran, though he has attended a UFC event and played golf in recent days.
The president acknowledged the dilemma, saying: 'That's one I can't win on. If I do attend, I get killed. If I don't attend, I get killed – by the fake news, of course.' He added that he hoped the couple would have a great marriage.
Donald Trump Jr, 48, is the president's eldest child and has been a key campaign surrogate. His fiancée is Bettina Anderson, a 39-year-old socialite and model. The couple made their first public appearance together at Trump's inauguration in January.
Trump's absence contrasts with his attendance at daughter Ivanka's wedding in 2009, which he described as 'spectacular'. Opinion polls show his approval rating at an all-time low amid the Iran conflict and rising domestic costs.
