President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were not invited to Arlington National Cemetery by Gold Star families last week to mark the third anniversary of the attack at Abbey Gate. It was former President Donald Trump who was invited by some families to take photos, a move that sparked controversy due to strict photo restrictions at the cemetery. Both Cotton and Gabbard claimed that Biden and Harris were also invited but did not respond or attend the event, choosing instead to engage in other activities.
Trump defended his actions, saying that he was asked by a Gold Star family to take photos at their loved one’s grave. He posted videos on social media showcasing support from families of killed service members who criticized Biden and Harris for not attending the event. The families accused Harris of trying to politicize the visit.
Cotton alleged that the parents of Staff Sgt. Darin Taylor Hoover extended an invitation to Biden and Harris but did not specify who the actual family members were. The controversy continued with claims and counterclaims regarding the appropriateness of Trump’s visit and actions at the cemetery.
Ultimately, the situation highlighted tensions around how political leaders engage with Gold Star families and marked a contentious moment in the ongoing political debate following the withdrawal from Afghanistan and issues related to honoring fallen service members.
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