Trump Sticks to Hockey, Avoids Tariff Talks During Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers’ Visit
A Delayed Ceremony and a Focus on Sports
President Donald Trump mostly stuck to sports and avoided any talk of tariffs as he celebrated the NHL’s defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers at the White House on Monday. The ceremony was delayed nearly an hour because Trump was talking to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about pausing tariffs on the country, as he did with Mexico.
A Celebration of Friendship and Sports
Trump made repeated references to Panthers owner Vinnie Viola being a friend. Viola was briefly Trump’s nominee to be Secretary of the Army in 2016 before withdrawing from consideration. The team had a red customized “Trump 45-47” jersey framed for him. He was also presented a “Trump 47” jersey and a gold stick by Viola, Finnish captain Aleksander Barkov, and American forward Matthew Tkachuk.
A Busy Schedule for the Panthers
The Panthers made their White House visit before facing the Eastern Conference-leading Washington Capitals on Tuesday night.
Conclusion
The ceremony at the White House was a celebration of the Panthers’ Stanley Cup victory and their team owner’s friendship with the President. While the topic of tariffs was on the agenda, Trump chose to focus on the world of sports, showcasing his appreciation for the team’s achievement.
FAQs
* What was the reason for the delay in the ceremony?
The ceremony was delayed nearly an hour because President Trump was talking to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about pausing tariffs on Canada.
* Who is Vinnie Viola?
Vinnie Viola is the owner of the Florida Panthers and was briefly President Trump’s nominee to be Secretary of the Army in 2016.
* What did the Panthers give to President Trump as a gift?
The team gave President Trump a red customized “Trump 45-47” jersey, a “Trump 47” jersey, and a gold stick.
