Trump gets do-over with youth after panned Boy Scouts speech
Washington — President Donald Trump got another chance Wednesday to connect with young people after a widely panned political speech to Boy Scouts this week. But he couldn’t part company without bringing up his victory in the presidential election nearly nine months ago.
It was Trump’s decision to add similar political touches to his remarks to the scouts that led to the blowback.
“Think of the amazing moments in history you will witness during your lifetime,” Trump told scores of high school juniors participating in the American Legion Boys Nation and American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation leadership programs.
“But you saw one on Nov. 8, right? That was a pretty amazing moment,” he said, referring to his electoral upset over Hillary Clinton.
Then Trump shifted to dispensing advice, telling the students who represent all 50 states they have “what it takes.” Students who participated in the past have gone on to become governors, U.S. senators and even a president: Bill Clinton.
“We have them all, and we have them all here today,” Trump said.
“And some of you don’t even really know what it might be, but we have people that are going to be so successful, so incredible in their lives. And you’re going to be happy. Do what you love. Do what you love. Follow what you love.
“Pour your whole heart into everything you do,” he continued. “Being successful is about finding your purpose in life and never, ever giving up.”
Both American Legion programs were started in the 1940s to teach students about the federal government.