The final line of the proclamation, issued Wednesday evening by the White House Press Secretary’s Office, reads: “I encourage all Americans to gather in homes and places of worship to pray for God’s thanks for our many blessings.”
Cases of coronavirus are on the rise, and public health officials warn that family gatherings, such as Thanksgiving, which are often indoors and multi-generational, could put vulnerable people at risk.
More than 261,000 people have died from Covid-19 in the United States, according to Johns Hopkins University. More than 1.7 million people have been diagnosed with the virus and the United States has set many new daily hospital admissions records.
Nevertheless, presidential announcements about the holidays are usually perfect statements made by the White House, from time to time, they take the political irony of the administration or current events. This year’s announcement includes sections dedicated to addressing the coronavirus epidemic.
Trump repeatedly issued public health warnings and organized large groups at the White House, later considered superstars, including a ceremony for new Supreme Court Justice Amy Connie Barrett, after the president tested positive for coronavirus.
Stephanie Grisham, the first lady chief of staff, said Monday that many of the White House’s traditional holidays will run parties, but indoor events will have safety precautions, including small guest lists and mask requirements.
CNN’s Nikki Carvajal, Betsy Klein and Kate Bennett contributed to this report.
.
