WASHINGTON — President Trump dropped by the first White House tour of the 47th presidency Tuesday, praising first lady Melania Trump’s work in organizing the coveted excursions.
“I want to thank you very much for coming. The tour is so great,” Trump told visitors packed into an underground hallway.
“The first lady worked very hard in making it perfect and I think you’re going to really love it.”
The president, 78, said he had “heard” the tour was happening and wanted to “stop by and say hello.”
“You’re very smart-looking people, I must say. Very smart. Maybe someday you’ll be here as the president,” he went on, getting laughs from the group.
Trump closed by telling staffers to give the group a “special tour” — to which the visitors responded with chants of “USA! USA!”
The self-guided tours were put on hiatus during the transition period ahead of Trump’s swearing-in Jan. 20.
The first lady had announced Feb. 12 that the tours would resume.
“The President and I are excited to reopen the White House to those interested in the extraordinary story of this iconic and beautiful landmark,” Melania Trump, 54, said in a statement at the time.
“There is much to learn about the American Presidency, the First Families who have lived here, and our Nation’s rich history from a firsthand experience at the White House,” the first lady added. “This opportunity is unique among nations around the globe — a tradition we are honored to continue for the hundreds of thousands of visitors who come each year.”
Members of the public can request a White House tour through their congressional representative or senator up to three months in advance. Foreign nationals can book their tour through their country’s embassy in Washington, DC.
The free tour includes access to the Vermeil Room, the Library, the China Room, the Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, the State Dining Room and a peek at the White House Kennedy Garden, according to officials.
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