They add up to 14 if you count the four aides in the White House Visitors Office and 15 if you count the first lady. Stephanie Grisham, Mrs. Trump’s communications director, was characteristically defensive on behalf of the first lady, saying the small team had learned to weather negative feedback as part of the job. PhotoThere will be subtle hints at bipartisanship in the décor: Along with 1,200 Obama-inspired cherry blossom branches to decorate the Cross Hall, Mrs. Trump will use china from the Clinton White House. The full guest list is expected to be released on Tuesday, right before the start of the dinner. Aides within the East and West Wings say planning such a detailed event has been well within Mrs. Trump’s comfort zone, and that she has grown comfortable with her role over time.

Source: New York Times April 23, 2018 19:18 UTC