President Donald Trump announced Friday that he will skip his eldest son’s wedding this weekend, citing urgent government responsibilities that require him to remain in Washington.
The president revealed his decision in a Truth Social post, explaining that he cannot attend Donald Trump Jr.’s marriage to Palm Beach socialite Bettina Anderson due to official duties.
“While I very much wanted to be with my son, Don Jr., and the newest member of the Trump Family, his soon to be wife, Bettina, circumstances pertaining to Government, and my love for the United States of America, do not allow me to do so,” Trump wrote in his social media announcement.
“I feel it is important for me to remain in Washington, D.C., at the White House during this important period of time,” the post continued.
According to CNN reports from Thursday, the ceremony is scheduled to occur this weekend on a small island in the Bahamas, with sources familiar with the arrangements providing the details. A spokesperson for Donald Trump Jr. did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
During remarks to reporters Thursday, Trump indicated that his son wanted him present for the celebration, describing it as a “small private affair.”
Trump mentioned Thursday that he would attempt to attend the wedding but acknowledged the difficult timing.
“I have a thing called Iran and other things,” Trump said on Thursday.
The administration is currently participating in Pakistan-mediated diplomatic discussions aimed at reaching an agreement to conclude the conflict with Iran that the U.S. and Israel initiated on February 28, which has disrupted the worldwide economy.
This marks Donald Trump Jr.’s third engagement. His previous marriage to Vanessa, a former model and actress, lasted 12 years and produced five children before she initiated divorce proceedings in 2018. He subsequently became engaged to Kimberly Guilfoyle, a television personality, until their separation in 2024.
