The White House • November 8, 2018

America’s flag flies at half-staff tonight

Late last night, 12 people were killed in a horrific shooting in Thousand Oaks, California. This morning, President Donald J. Trump signed a Proclamation as America mourns alongside the victims’ families and communities.    “As a mark of solemn respect for the victims of the terrible act of violence,” President Trump writes, “I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, November 10, 2018.” President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence were briefed on the shooting and the police response early this morning. “Great bravery shown by police. California Highway Patrol was on scene within 3 minutes, with first officer to enter shot numerous times. That Sheriff’s Sergeant died in the hospital,” the President tweeted. “God bless all of the victims and families of the victims. Thank you to Law Enforcement.” Read the President’s Proclamation remembering the victims in Thousand Oaks. Acts of courage: Sheriff's Sgt. Ron Helus “died a hero.”

Our 114th Supreme Court Justice of the United States President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump joined the 114th Justice of the United States, Brett M. Kavanaugh, for his traditional investiture ceremony at the U.S. Supreme Court this morning. The investiture ceremony marks when a new Justice formally takes his or her spot on the High Court. The President and First Lady joined Justice Kavanaugh, seven of the other justices, and numerous public officials for the occasion. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the judicial oath to Justice Kavanaugh just after 10 a.m. Justice Kavanaugh was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on October 6, and began hearing oral arguments a few days later on October 9. See photos from today’s investiture ceremony. More: Get to know America’s 114th Supreme Court Justice, Brett M. Kavanaugh.

Photo of the Day

Official White House Photo by Keegan Barber

The American flag is flown at half-staff above the White House in memory of the victims of the tragic shooting in Thousand Oaks, California | November 8, 2018