Trump meets with Stanley Cup Champions – Aerial View on FLA Live Arena, formerly known as BB&T Center – Courtesy: Shutterstock – Image by YES Market Media
President Donald Trump toasted the NHL’s defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers at the White House on Monday, largely focusing on sports and avoiding any discussion of tariffs.
Trump was discussing with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau the possibility of halting tariffs on Canada, similar to what he did with Mexico, which caused the ceremony to be postponed by about an hour.
The president frequently mentioned his friendship with Vinnie Viola, the owner of the Panthers. In 2016, Viola was briefly considered by Trump for the position of Secretary of the Army, but she later withdrew from consideration.
A crimson personalized “Trump 45-47” shirt was framed for him by the club. Viola, American forward Matthew Tkachuk, and Finnish captain Aleksander Barkov all gave him a gold stick and a “Trump 47” shirt.
The Panthers visited the White House prior to Tuesday night’s game against the Washington Capitals, who lead the Eastern Conference.
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Born and raised in South Florida, Krystal is a recent graduate from the University of Miami with professional writing experience at the collegiate and national news outlet levels. She’s a foodie who loves all things travel, the beach, & visiting new places throughout Florida.