Trump to name Dec. 5 a national day of mourning for George H.W. Bush

PHOTOGRAPHER: The New York Times

In an undated photo from his presidential library, President George H.W. Bush.

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – President Donald Trump plans to attend the Washington funeral of former president George H.W. Bush and is designating next Wednesday a national day of mourning, the White House said Saturday.

Trump, who is traveling here in Argentina for the Group of 20 summit, was notified overnight of Bush’s passing. He is planning to speak by phone on Saturday morning with the late president’s son, former President George W. Bush, to offer his condolences on behalf of himself, first lady Melania Trump and the nation, according to a statement from White House press secretary Sarah Sanders.

Trump and the first lady will attend the funeral at Washington National Cathedral, Sanders said.

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“A state funeral is being arranged with all of the accompanying support and honors,” Sanders said.

In addition, she said Trump will designate Wednesday a national day of mourning.

Trump did not attend the last major funeral in Washington, that of former senator John McCain of Arizona. The president had long feuded with McCain and was not welcome at the services, which were attended by former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

Trump also did not attend the funeral of former first lady Barbara Bush. Melania Trump did attend that service in Texas.