Cabinet Meeting Highlights Leif Erikson and Columbus Day

WASHINGTON – During Thursday’s Cabinet meeting, the eighth since his return to office in January, President Donald Trump kicked things off by signing proclamations for Leif Erikson Day and Columbus Day.

The first was for Leif Erikson Day, recognized on Thursday, October 9, to honor the Viking explorer who crossed the Atlantic and discovered Newfoundland nearly a millennium ago.

White House Chief of Staff Will Schaaf noted that this holiday holds significant meaning for Scandinavian Americans, who celebrate Erikson as a remarkable explorer, a dedicated Christian, and a compelling figure in North American history.

President Trump highlighted the importance of Leif Erikson Day for the Scandinavian community. He then presented Schaaf with the Columbus Day proclamation, which pays tribute to Christopher Columbus, the Italian explorer who embarked on a treacherous journey across the Atlantic in search of a route to India, ultimately landing in the Bahamas in 1492.

Applause filled the room for the Columbus Day announcement, and Trump remarked that even the press was joining in the applause. In a light-hearted moment, he proclaimed, “I’m back, Italian!” He commented on how progressives have attempted to diminish Columbus’ accomplishments and legacy.

Earlier this year, Trump had announced plans to restore the significance of Columbus Day. On Truth Social, he expressed his determination to “bring Columbus Day back from the ashes,” alleging that Democrats had actively worked to undermine Columbus’ reputation and the love Italians have for him.

He criticized the removal of Columbus’s statues, lamenting the absence of meaningful tributes in their place. Trump affirmed, “You’ll be happy to know that Christopher is coming back in a big way,” and reiterated his commitment by reinstating Columbus Day with established rules, dates, and locations, just as it has been celebrated for many years.