President Trump is expected to make an appearance today at the U.S. Women's Open in Bedminster, N.J., but there has "been no word from the White House on Trump's plans for the day." The White House press pool arrived at Trump National Golf Club around 1:00pm ET. Trump was at the tournament both Friday and yesterday, and his visits were "relatively low-key." There has "been no word" as to whether Trump will take part in the trophy presentation (NJ.com, 7/16).
Trump arrived yesterday at his presidential box in midafternoon and "welcomed several visitors, including Paula Creamer, who did not make the cut, and Lexi Thompson." His presence did not appear to have "caused much reaction on the course, beyond an elevated noise level in the vicinity of his suite" (N.Y. TIMES, 7/16). Trump this morning tweeted thanks to "all of the supporters" from yesterday, who "far out-numbered the protesters" at the course (TWITTER.com, 7/16).
On Friday, a few miles away from the course, anti-Trump activists "gathered to protest" the USGA holding the event at the Trump-owned course. But most players "described his presence as a welcome distraction." By showing up, Trump "elevated the profile of the women," as he is the "first sitting president to make an appearance at a U.S. Women's Open" (N.Y. TIMES, 7/15).
