WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump has responded to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s postponement of the State of the Union address by issuing a tweet via White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders.
“Dear Madame Speaker,” the letter begins, “Due to the Shutdown, I am sorry to inform you that your trip to Brussels, Egypt, and Afghanistan have been postponed.”
Though the president stated Pelosi was scheduled to visit Europe and the Middle East over a seven day period, Pelosi had yet to announce any overseas trip, according to CNN.
In his letter to the speaker, Trump noted Pelosi’s seven day “excursion” would be rescheduled when the shutdown ends.
“In light of the 800,000 American workers not receiving pay, I am sure you agree that postponing this public relations event is totally appropriate,” he wrote.
CNN reports that early in the week, Pelosi issued a letter to the president stating, "Sadly, given the security concerns and unless government re-opens this week, I suggest we work together to determine another suitable date after government has re-opened for this address or for you to consider delivering your State of the Union address in writing to the Congress on January 29."
"I also feel that, during this period, it would be better if you were in Washington negotiating with me and joining the Strong Border Security movement to end the shutdown," Trump's letter continues.
According to a report by CNBC, Pelosi wrote to Trump that "Since the start of modern budgeting in Fiscal Year 1977, a State of the Union address has never been delivered during a government shutdown."
But Trump did not entirely bar Pelosi from traveling.
“Obviously, if you would like to make your journey by flying commercial, that would certainly be your prerogative,” Trump wrote.
In response to Trump's letter, Pelosi's Deputy Chief of Staff, Drew Hammill, tweeted:
This weekend visit to Afghanistan did not include a stop in Egypt. (2/4)
— Drew Hammill (@Drew_Hammill) January 17, 2019
The President traveled to Iraq during the Trump Shutdown as did a Republican CODEL led by Rep. Zeldin. (4/4)
— Drew Hammill (@Drew_Hammill) January 17, 2019
Thursday marks the 26th day of the government shutdown.
Over 800,000 federal workers have not been paid due to a stalemate between the president and democrats regarding funding for a wall along the southern border.
The State of the Union is scheduled for January 29.
You can read the entire letter below:
President @realDonaldTrump’s letter to @SpeakerPelosi concerning her upcoming travel pic.twitter.com/TtBCvwp080
— Sarah Sanders (@PressSec) January 17, 2019
