US President Donald Trump ushered in the new year with a lavish black bash at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, calling for “peace on earth” as he spoke briefly to reporters alongside first lady Melania Trump.
Wearing a tuxedo, Trump posed outside the ballroom with Melania, who stood out in a sparkling silver full-length dress, before the couple entered the mansion’s New Year’s Eve ball.
When asked about his New Year’s resolution, Trump simply replied, “World peace,” while declining to take questions about recent foreign policy developments.
Tariffs, optimism and a return to power
On stage in Donald J. Trump Hall, the president praised the state of the country during the first months of his non-consecutive second term.
“We’re taking in hundreds of millions of dollars in tariffs,” Trump told guests, adding that the U.S. is “back” and “strong” and repeating his promise of $1,776 in checks for military service members.
A painting of Jesus fetched $2.75 million
The evening featured the performance of Christian worship artist Vanessa Horabuena, who painted a portrait of Jesus Christ live on stage. Trump presided over the auction and joked with the bidders as the artwork eventually sold for $2.75 million.
The president said the proceeds would go to charity, including the Children’s Research Hospital St. Jude and the sheriff’s department.
Netanyahu among the distinguished guests
Netanyahu among notable guests Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was among the notable attendees who appeared alongside Trump in social media posts from the event.
Trump said he was “not interested in anything Israel does” as the two leaders continued to discuss Middle East issues.
A stellar guest list
The guest list included Trump’s sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, daughter-in-law Lara Trump.
Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Emirati billionaire Hussain Sajwani, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino were also present.
