President Trump reacted Saturday night to the death of Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., sending his best wishes to his family shortly after his passing
“My deepest sympathies and respect go out to the family of Senator John McCain. Our hearts and prayers are with you!” Trump tweeted on Saturday evening.
My deepest sympathies and respect go out to the family of Senator John McCain. Our hearts and prayers are with you!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 26, 2018
The comments from Trump came despite a testy relationship with the late Senate Republican giant, including his remarks during the 2016 campaign that McCain wasn’t a war hero because he liked soldiers that weren’t captured.
[More: No comments on McCain expected from Trump as senator nears final days: Report]
The president’s remarks were the first since McCain’s family announced that the two-time presidential candidate and 2008 GOP nominee would discontinue medical treatment for glioblastoma, which he was diagnosed with last summer. According to reports, McCain has requested that Trump not attend his funeral, and instead have Vice President Pence attend to represent the White House.
First Lady Melania Trump also sent her best wishes to the McCain family and thanked the Arizona Republican for his service.
“Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy to the McCain Family. Thank you Senator McCain for your service to the nation,” the first lady said in a tweet.
Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy to the McCain Family. Thank you Senator McCain for your service to the nation.
— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) August 26, 2018
The White House flag was lowered to half-staff Saturday evening.
Watch: White House flag lowered to half-staff in honor of Senator John McCain. https://t.co/svUk6F5K8q https://t.co/6YCBETcNre
— ABC News (@ABC) August 26, 2018
