The White House is moving ahead with plans to host a number of holiday parties despite warnings from public health officials to avoid large gatherings and travel during the holiday period.
According to The Washington Post, the White House is expected to throw more than a dozen indoor parties, funded by the Republican Party, including a large congressional ball on Dec. 10.
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The events will be attended by more than 50 people some from outside Washington who will travel to D.C . to attend these parties.
On Tuesday, Melania Trump’s spokesperson Stephanie Grisham, said protocols will be taken to protect guests at the parties.
“This includes smaller guest lists, masks will be required and available, social distancing encouraged while on the White House grounds, and hand sanitizer stations throughout the State Floor. Guests will enjoy food individually plated by chefs at plexiglass-protected food stations. All passed beverages will be covered. All service staff will wear masks and gloves to comply with food safety guidelines. Attending the parties will be a very personal choice,” Grisham said.
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But, one White House ally, told The Post that a formal invitation included no guidance on masks or social distancing.
Asked about the White House’s plans to hold parties last month, Surgeon General Jerome Adams said, “We want everyone to understand that these holiday celebrations can be super spreader events, so we want them to be smart and we want them to be as small as possible. These apply to the White House, they apply to the American people, they apply to everyone.”
