White House defends Trump’s visits to his golf club

White House press secretary Sean Spicer on Monday defended President Trump’s frequent trips to his golf course in West Palm Beach, Fla., arguing that the president uses the game differently than his predecessor did.

NBC News reported over the weekend that Trump made his 10th visit to Trump International Golf Club since the inauguration.

Spicer pointed to Trump’s meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, arguing that they were able to develop their relationship while playing golf.

{mosads}“You saw him utilize this as opportunity with Prime Minister Abe to help foster deeper relationships in Asia and have a growing relationship that’s going to help U.S. interests,” Spicer told reporters.

“How you use the game of golf is something that he’s talked about.”

Trump frequently criticized former President Obama for making golf trips during his time in office. Spicer also noted that Trump has held meetings and phone conversations at the golf club.

“Just because he heads there doesn’t mean that [he’s golfing],” Spicer said.

When pressed by Yahoo News reporter Hunter Walker on why the White House doesn’t disclose those meetings in greater detail, Spicer said it’s a matter of privacy.

“The president is entitled to a little bit of privacy at some point,” Spicer said.