Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 18, 2019 President Donald J. Trump Approves California Disaster Declaration   Yesterday, President Donald J. Trump declared that a major disaster exists in the State of California and ordered Federal assistance to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from February 24 to March 1, 2019. Federal funding is available to State and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides in the counties of Amador, Butte, Colusa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, Sonoma, Tehama, Trinity, and Tuolumne. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. Pete Gaynor, Acting Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security, named Benigno Bern Ruiz as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the State and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

President Donald J. Trump Announces Presidential Delegation to Attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 18, 2019 President Donald J. Trump Announces Presidential Delegation to Attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine Today, President Donald J. Trump announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, on May 20, 2019, in Kyiv, Ukraine. The Honorable Rick Perry, Secretary of the Department of Energy, will lead the delegation. Members of the Presidential Delegation: His Excellency Kurt Volker, United States Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations His Excellency Gordon D. Sondland, United States Ambassador to the European Union Mr. Alexander Vindman, Director for European Affairs, National Security Council Mr. Joseph Pennington, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission for the United States Embassy in Ukraine

Resolute Reads REAL NEWS PRESIDENT TRUMP DOESN'T WANT YOU TO MISS

REAL NEWS PRESIDENT TRUMP DOESN'T WANT YOU TO MISS Why Trump’s Immigration Speech is a Game-Changer -Fox News “Even before the president did a microphone check for his immigration and border security speech in the White House Rose Garden Thursday afternoon, his critics were saying they hated his plan,” James Carafano writes. “Good. That means he must be more right than wrong.” President Trump outlined his proposal for reforming America’s broken immigration system this week, transforming “the legal system first to one bringing in workers based on merit.”  Watch: A fair, modern, and lawful immigration system for America! White House Launches Survey Looking for Tech Industry Bias -The Associated Press On the heels of numerous claims of political bias within some of America’s most powerful tech companies, “the White House has launched an online form asking people to share their experiences if they think political partisanship has led them to be silenced by social media sites,” Barbara Ortutay reports. Share your story: The Trump Administration is fighting for free speech online. Ivanka Trump Wins Pledge to Train 1 Million More Workers, 9 Million So Far -Washington Examiner “Ivanka Trump is on a roll in her campaign to win pledges from American companies to train workers for well-paying jobs,” Paul Bedard reports. “In her latest stop this week . . . she won a promise to help train 1 million new salesmen and women. It came during a visit to Salesforce, the cloud-based customer management system, during which CEO Marc Benioff doubled his plan to provide training for 500,000.” Trump Honors Fallen Officers at Capitol Hill Memorial Service -CBS News “President Trump said he stands with law enforcement during the Annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service on Capitol Hill, an event to honor law enforcement officers who have died on the line of duty,” CBS News reports. “Today we renew our solemn oath that we will never forget,” the President said alongside families of fallen officers.  More: President Trump speaks at Peace Officers’ Memorial Service Why Free Traders and All Americans Should Back Trump on China Policy -The Hill “If ever there were a right time to impose punitive tariffs, it is now, and it is against China,” economic expert Stephen Moore writes. “This is the right moment to shut down China’s abusive trade practices forever.” Here is the essential fact you don’t hear from the media: “The average tariff that we imposed on China when Trump entered the White House was about 4 percent. China’s tariffs on us were about 10 percent,” Moore says. Bull Durham at Justice -The Wall Street Journal “Attorney General William Barr has tasked U.S. Attorney John Durham to investigate the origins of the Trump-Russia investigation. If the Justice Department had done this two years ago, the country would be in a much better place,” Kimberly Strassel writes. “The esteemed duo can give the public confidence that Justice and FBI actions are getting a fair and thorough look.” How the Trump Prescription for Drug Prices Transparency Could Make Health Care Well Again -USA Today “Nothing better illustrates the insanity of the nation’s health care system than the drug ads people watch . . . Not only are you paying for the cost of developing and marketing drugs for other people, you have to sit through the ads that try to persuade those people to buy those drugs, which then pushes up your insurance premiums,” the USA Today editorial board writes. “The Trump administration, to its credit, has a plan that could stimulate this debate . . . Starting this summer, ads for drugs costing at least $35 per month will have to include their prices.” Trump Touts American Energy in Cameron -The Associated Press “President Donald Trump showcased his ‘America First energy policy’ on Tuesday during a trip to Louisiana designed to highlight his administration’s efforts to increase liquefied natural gas exports and boost the country’s energy infrastructure,” The Associated Pressreports. “Under my administration we have ended the war on America energy and ended the economic assault on our wonderful energy workers,” the President said.  President Trump: “We have ended the war on American energy.”

White House Photos of the Week Monday, May 13-17 , 2019

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 17, 2019 Photos of the Week Monday, May 13, 2019 President Donald J. Trump is joined by Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, and representatives of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Community as he signs an Executive Order regarding the “Economic Empowerment of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders” Monday, May, 13, 2019, in the Oval Office of the White House.  (Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian)       President Donald J. Trump welcomes the Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orbán Monday, May 13, 2019, at the West Wing Lobby entrance of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)       President Donald J. Trump participates in a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orbán Monday, May 13, 2019, in the Oval Office of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian)       President Donald J. Trump meets with Lotte Group Chairman Shin Dong-bin and his delegation Monday, May 13, 2019, in the Oval Office of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)       President Donald J. Trump poses for a photo with retired United States Marine Sgt. John Peck and his newly released book, “Rebuilding Sergeant Peck,” Monday, May 13, 2019, in the Oval Office of the White House. Sgt. Peck lost his arms and legs following an IED explosion in Afghanistan in 2010. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)       President Donald J. Trump delivers remarks at the White House Iftar dinner Monday, May 13, 2019, in the State Dining Room of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)       Guests attending the White House Iftar dinner are seen in prayer Monday, May 13, 2019, in the East Room of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks)       Tuesday, May 14, 2019 President Donald J. Trump participates in a tour of Cameron LNG Export Terminal Tuesday, May 14, 2019, in Hackberry, La. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)       President Donald J. Trump delivers remarks on promoting energy infrastructure and economic growth Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at the Cameron LNG Export Terminal in Hackberry, La. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)       Vice President Mike Pence presents a memorial wreath in honor of fallen officers during National Police Week Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)       First Lady Melania Trump places her hand on her heart during the national anthem at the Congressional Spouses Luncheon Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. (Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks)       Wednesday, May 15, 2019 President Donald J. Trump attends the 38th annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)       President Donald J. Trump joins Chuck Canterbury, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police, during the 38th annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)       Vice President Mike Pence delivers a tribute during the memorial service of United States Senator Richard Lugar Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)       President Donald J. Trump, joined by First Lady Melania Trump, delivers remarks during the White House Historical Association Dinner Wednesday, May 15, 2019, in the East Room of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks)       President Donald J. Trump speaks with guests during the White House Historical Association Dinner Wednesday, May 15, 2019, in the East Room of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian)       The North Portico of the White House is illuminated blue Wednesday, May 15, 2019, in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day. (Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian)       Thursday, May 16, 2019  President Donald J. Trump meets with the President of the Swiss Confederation Ueli Maurer Thursday, May 16, 2019, in the Oval Office of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)       President Donald J. Trump delivers remarks on the unveiling of a modernized immigration policy Thursday, May 16, 2019, in the Rose Garden of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)       Vice President Mike Pence greets service members Thursday, May 16, 2019, at United States Army Garrison Fort McCoy, Wis. (Official White House Photo by D. Myles Cullen)       Second Lady Karen Pence delivers remarks at the event “Creating Employment Solutions for Military Spouses: A Summit on Military Spouse Unemployment” Thursday, May 16, 2019, in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Amy Rossetti)       President Donald J. Trump disembarks Marine One Thursday, May 16, 2019, at the Wall Street Landing Zone in New York City. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)       Friday, May 17, 2019 President Donald J. Trump delivers remarks at the National Association of Realtors Legislative Meetings and Trade Expo Friday, May 17, 2019, at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, D.C.  (Official White House Photo by Joyce N. Boghosian)       ###

Armed Forces Day, 2019 - A Proclamation By the President of the United States of America

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 17, 2019

Armed Forces Day, 2019 - - - - - - - By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation        From Normandy and Iwo Jima through Operations Desert Storm and Inherent Resolve, our Nation's Armed Forces have consistently made us proud by defeating our enemies and defending the freedoms we cherish.  Their bravery, love of country, and devotion to duty are unmatched, and we are eternally grateful for the sacrifices they make for all American citizens.  On Armed Forces Day, we honor all of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who make up the finest military in the world.      Every day, tens of thousands of American troops risk their lives and sacrifice time with their families and friends to protect our national security and keep us safe.  Through their strength and dedication to our country, they protect our freedoms, interests, and way of life at duty stations all around the world.  We thank them for their incredible service, and we recognize that our Nation has a sacred obligation to ensure that our Armed Forces remain ready and fully equipped to face any threat.      As President, I am committed to empowering America's warriors with every advantage they need to fulfill their missions.  During the last 2 years, our Armed Forces have had one victory after another against ISIS, culminating in March with the liberation of 100 percent of the territory once held by ISIS in Syria and Iraq.  We are encouraged by this tremendous success, and it is important that our military remains the strongest in the world.  This is one of my Administration's highest priorities, and I have called on the Congress to increase funding for our national defense by $34 billion over last year's level.  These additional resources are vital to enhancing our capabilities at sea, on the ground, in the air, and in space and guaranteeing that America's military never falls behind.      I also continue to advocate for our service members to receive increased support, which they deserve for bearing the burden of defending our freedoms.  Last year, I signed into law the largest pay raise for our troops in 9 years, and, for 2020, I have called on the Congress to provide a 3.1 percent pay raise.  This 3.1 percent raise would be the largest pay raise for our troops in 10 years and would further demonstrate our Nation's gratitude to the more than 2.1 million active duty and reserve military men and women.      Our courageous and vigilant Armed Forces safeguard the blessings of liberty for us and for future generations by selflessly answering the call of duty.  Today, and every day, we acknowledge and celebrate all who proudly wear our Nation's uniforms and the family members who face unique challenges as they tirelessly support them.      NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, continuing the tradition of my predecessors in office, do hereby proclaim the third Saturday of each May as Armed Forces Day.      I invite the Governors of the States and Territories and other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day within their jurisdiction each year in an appropriate manner designed to increase public understanding and appreciation of the Armed Forces of the United States.  I also invite veterans, civic, and other organizations to join in the observance of Armed Forces Day each year.      Finally, I call upon all Americans to display the flag of the United States at their homes and businesses on Armed Forces Day, and I urge citizens to learn more about military service by attending and participating in the local observances of the day.      Proclamation 9753 of May 18, 2018, is hereby superseded.      IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nineteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third.                                 DONALD J. TRUMP     ###

WORLD TRADE WEEK, 2019 - A PROCLAMATION BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 17, 2019   WORLD TRADE WEEK, 2019 - - - - - - - BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION     Free, fair, and reciprocal trade is essential to American and global prosperity.  During World Trade Week, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring that our Nation's farmers, ranchers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs are able to sell their goods and services in the global market on a level playing field.  We also celebrate mutually beneficial and balanced trade between nations and pledge to continue pressing those countries that persist with one-sided trade polices to abandon them.     Our Nation is benefiting from a booming economy that is improving the lives of hardworking Americans and their families.  Since my election, we have witnessed the creation of more than 5.8 million new jobs, including approximately 500,000 new manufacturing jobs.  American gross domestic product grew at nearly 3 percent last year, and at a rate of 3.2 percent in the first quarter of this year.  As a result, wages are rising at the fastest pace in a decade.  This economic success is a testament to the effectiveness of my Administration's tax, regulatory, and tariff and trade policies.     With a level playing field, American workers and producers can compete with any nation in the world.  In recent years, however, our prosperity has been hampered by the growing economic aggression and unfair trading practices of other countries.  Nations that do not share our free market values have used dumping and industrial subsidies, discriminatory non tariff barriers, forced technology transfers, excess capacity, cyber and hacking attacks, and other forms of economic aggression to gain unfair competitive advantages over American workers and producers.  My Administration is using every available tool to confront these burdensome, market-distorting trade practices.  We are aggressively enforcing the well-established trade laws of the United States, and we are negotiating new trade agreements to address unfair trade practices and remove barriers to the export of our goods and services.       My Administration's leadership in strongly pursuing fair trade is enabling our Nation's firms to compete on a more level, fair playing field.  We are working to modernize and improve our agreements, negotiating new trade deals that protect our national security and are based on fairness and reciprocity.  For example, we revised one of our most significant trade deals, the United States–Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS), to make it far more beneficial to American workers.     In addition, with the signing of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), I delivered on my promise to renegotiate the outdated and unbalanced North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).  Once approved by the Congress, the USMCA will help address longstanding trade imbalances by granting American businesses across all sectors of our economy greater freedom to sell their goods and services throughout North America.  The successful conclusion of both KORUS and USMCA shows that new trade deals that work for all Americans -- and not just some -- are possible.  My Administration is also actively engaged in negotiations with the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Japan to secure broader market access for American products and services.     The United States and our trading partners benefit greatly from free, fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade.  This week, we renew our commitment to addressing persistent trade imbalances, breaking down trade barriers, and providing Americans new opportunities to increase exports.  Greater transparency in global trade and predictable business climates in economies that adhere to high standards for trade and investment will bring greater prosperity to our Nation and the world.     NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 19 through May 25, 2019, as World Trade Week.  I encourage Americans to observe this week with events, trade shows, and educational programs that celebrate the benefits of trade to our country.     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nineteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third.                         DONALD J. TRUMP ###

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 18, 2019 President Donald J. Trump Amends Florida Disaster Declaration   On May 8, 2019, President Donald J. Trump made additional disaster assistance available to the State of Florida by authorizing an increase in the level of Federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures undertaken in the State due to the severity of Hurricane Michael. Under the President's order, the Federal share for debris removal and emergency protective measures has been increased to 90 percent of the total eligible costs, except for assistance previously approved at 100 percent. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.