First Lady Melania Trump said the recent shooting of House Majority Whip Steve Scalise and other Republicans will be on the minds of those at the White House’s congressional picnic on Thursday.
“With the recent and tragic shooting at the congressional baseball game practice last week, it is more important than ever that we spend time together not as politicians, but as colleagues and friends,” the first lady said in a statement. “We will continue to keep Congressman Scalise, his family, and all who were injured in our thoughts and prayers as we come together tonight united through this unthinkable tragedy.”
According to the White House, the picnic is an annual tradition dating back to Ronald Reagan where the president pays homage to his home state. The Trumps will host lawmakers and their families on the South Lawn of the White House Thursday evening.
The White House said the theme will be modeled after a summer evening in Central Park in New York City.
“My husband and I are pleased to welcome Members of Congress and their families to the people’s house. I look forward to an evening together that will highlight our New York home by bringing a piece of New York City to Washington, D.C.,” Melania Trump said.
Scalise, along with a lobbyist, congressional aide and police officers, were wounded when a gunman opened fire last Wednesday during a baseball practice in Alexandria. Scalise has been hospitalized ever since but is expected to make a recovery.
