Tulsi Gabbard accuses Harris of hypocrisy while dismissing backlash over Trump’s Arlington photo-op
WASHINGTON, DC: On Sunday morning’s edition of CNN’s 'State of the Union,' Tulsi Gabbard, former Democratic representative and current supporter of Donald Trump, addressed the controversy surrounding Trump’s visit to Arlington National Cemetery.
Gabbard, a veteran herself, responded to the families of war veterans who had expressed outrage over Trump's use of the cemetery for a photo op that was later featured in a campaign advertisement.
Tulsi Gabbard responds to criticism of Trump’s Arlington photo-op
During her discussion with host Dana Bash, Tulsi Gabbard was questioned about Trump’s widely criticized appearance, where he was seen making thumbs-up gestures and smiling behind headstones, accompanied by several Gold Star families.
This move was widely perceived as an inappropriate and politically motivated use of sacred grounds.
Bash explained the situation, noting, "The question is about the federal law and Arlington rules that prohibit partisan or political activities at national cemeteries and the military. And also other members of other families who are buried right near there are upset about the campaign filming it and posting the video online."
She then asked Gabbard if she believed Trump’s actions were appropriate.
Tulsi Gabbard defends Donald Trump’s Arlington visit as properly authorized
Tulsi Gabbard responded by asserting that the campaign had followed the necessary protocols, stating, "No, I checked with the campaign on this question and they have exchanges with the officials at Arlington Cemetery. They were approved to bring a camera there to document this historic and momentous day that should not be forgotten by any American and to have a former president there and joining these Gold Star families."
Gabbard did not directly address the objections other families raised regarding the event's political nature.
She added, "I know President Trump wanted to share that with others, especially given the fact that President Biden—and Harris, I heard—were invited by some of these family members. They not only didn’t come, they didn’t even respond to that invitation.”
Gold Star families defend Donald Trump’s Arlington visit amid criticism and controversy
According to WFLA.com, on Sunday, September 1, Donald Trump's campaign released a statement from the Gold Star families who invited him to Arlington National Cemetery.
The statement defended the former president and accused Vice President Kamala Harris of politicizing fallen US service members.
This occurred amid ongoing debate over Trump’s visit, which Harris criticized as a “political stunt” that disrespected the site where many fallen from the Afghanistan war are buried.
Trump’s campaign distributed images of the visit, despite cemetery rules prohibiting partisan activities, and Trump praised the Gold Star families for their support.
