Administration

Trumps host White House Halloween event featuring masks, social distancing

President Trump and first lady Melania Trump greeted trick-or-treaters at the White House on Sunday evening in a modified version of the annual ceremony with precautions taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Video of the event showed the first couple meeting costumed children from several yards away while musicians played Halloween favorites such as the “Ghostbusters” theme in the background.

Guests at the ceremony included military families as well as those of front-line workers who remained on the job throughout the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

White House staff continued to hand out candy as usual but took extra steps to “utilize a no-touch approach in their area when distributing their product,” according to guidance officials released days ago upon announcing the modified ceremony.

Officials said last week that they hoped the guidance would “help ensure the health and safety of all guests wishing to participate in this year’s spooky celebration.”