Trump, US President, Offers Belated Condolences on the Passing of Representative Lewis

Order to fly flags at half-staff at government offices for one day
Brief condolence statement after golf round
US media: "Trump's tribute, too late"

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] U.S. President Donald Trump ordered government offices to fly flags at half-staff in honor of the late John Lewis, a Democratic congressman who led the African American civil rights movement in the United States. President Trump posted a statement mourning Congressman Lewis on Twitter, but some criticized the response as belated.

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

According to U.S. media on the 18th (local time), President Trump issued a proclamation directing U.S. government agencies to fly flags at half-staff in tribute to Congressman Lewis. Following this order, all public buildings including the White House, military posts and bases, as well as U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, will fly flags at half-staff for one day.

In addition, President Trump tweeted, "I am saddened to hear of the passing of civil rights activist John Lewis," adding, "Melania and I send our prayers to him and his family." On the same day, after visiting a golf club and playing golf, President Trump posted a condolence tweet.

U.S. media pointed out that considering Congressman Lewis passed away the previous day, President Trump's response was delayed.

President Trump and Congressman Lewis had an uneasy relationship. Lewis criticized Trump’s remarks, calling him a "racist." Trump also criticized Lewis for neglecting his district and being all talk.

Congressman Lewis was a leading figure in the African American civil rights movement alongside Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. He marched with Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. during the 1965 Selma march and was respected across the American political spectrum.

U.S. Representative John Lewis
[Photo by Reuters Yonhap News]

Meanwhile, Democratic presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden honored Lewis, saying, "Congressman Lewis was always a moral compass who knew where we were headed and where we needed to go." Former President Barack Obama shared anecdotes from his inauguration, recalling how he embraced Lewis and said, "I am here because of his sacrifice," and "I have always said I stand on his shoulders."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.