Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Michael Ciaglo
Donald Trump has sought to address the backlash surrounding his recent visit to Arlington National Cemetery, where two of his staffers reportedly clashed with an official over rules against photographing gravesites.
The former president and Republican nominee, accompanied by families of service members who died in an August 2021 bombing, was criticized for his seemingly cheerful demeanor and thumbs-up gestures during the visit. Critics have questioned why Trump appeared so upbeat at such a solemn event.
According to a cemetery spokesperson, the incident involved two of Trump’s campaign staffers who allegedly engaged in both verbal and physical altercations with an official enforcing the cemetery’s rules. “We can confirm there was an incident, and a report was filed,” the spokesperson said.
Trump’s campaign spokesman, Stephen Cheung, denied these allegations of physical confrontation. Cheung claimed that his team would release footage to counter the “defamatory claims.” In response, Trump posted a statement late Tuesday night, signed by the parents of Hoover and some members of Gee’s family, expressing their gratitude for his visit.
The statement read, “We would like to express our heartfelt thoughts and appreciation to President Donald J. Trump for his presence at the recent Section 60 gathering, honoring our children and their fallen brothers and sisters. On the three-year anniversary of the Abbey Gate bombing, the president and his team conducted themselves with nothing but the utmost respect and dignity for all of our service members, especially our beloved children.”
A source familiar with the situation suggested that the official was attempting to enforce a federal law prohibiting political activities at Army National Military Cemeteries. Cheung, however, described the official’s actions as stemming from a “mental health episode.”
The families involved later issued a new statement emphasizing their appreciation for Trump’s visit. “We had given our approval for President Trump’s official videographer and photographer to attend the event, ensuring these sacred moments of remembrance were respectfully captured so we can cherish these memories forever,” the statement said.
It continued, “We are deeply grateful to the president for taking the time to honor our children and for standing alongside us in our grief, offering his unwavering support during such a difficult time. His compassion and respect meant more than words can express.” The controversy highlights ongoing debates about the appropriateness of political figures participating in memorial events and the conduct of their staff.
