President Donald Trump gave what he likely considered a valid reason for missing his eldest son's wedding, but his explanation drew widespread skepticism online. Donald Trump Jr. is set to marry model and socialite Bettina Anderson this weekend in the Bahamas, but the president indicated he might not attend.
Trump's Remarks on the Wedding
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Trump appeared less than enthusiastic. "He'd like me to go, but it's gonna be just a small, little, private affair, and I'm gonna try and make it," Trump said. "I said, you know, this is not good timing for me. I have a thing called Iran and other things." He added that attending would draw criticism either way: "If I do attend, I get killed. If I don't attend, I get killed. By the fake news, of course."
Social Media Reaction
The president's hesitation triggered a wave of critical comments on social media. Many users pointed out the contrast between his busy schedule and his frequent golf outings. One user noted, "My heart breaks for Don Jr sometimes." Another wrote, "The most relatable thing about this disgusting man is that he hates his idiot sons." Political commentator Rick Wilson sarcastically called him "Father of the fucking year." Jessica Tarlov remarked, "There would surely be time to go to his son's wedding and manipulate the oil markets. It is a long weekend after all."
Others highlighted his golfing habits: "Man who has been golfing every weekend during his presidency is suddenly too busy to make it to his son's wedding this weekend. Incredible." Another user tweeted, "Trump has gone golfing 14 times since the Iran War started. But his oldest son gets married and it's 'I have a thing called Iran' lol."
No Comment from the Groom
As of Thursday evening, Donald Trump Jr. had not publicly commented on his father's uncertainty about attending the wedding.
