Trump says Xi state dinner is ‘a very tough ticket’ as business guest list takes shape
US president says White House seats about 125 guests, while Chinese executives facing scrutiny in the US are considered for Xi’s delegation
“This is a very tough ticket for me,” Trump told reporters. “I’ve told a lot of very good friends of mine, you just can’t come.”
The president said the White House had room for “about 125 or so people”, although thousands would like to attend. He lamented that its planned ballroom was not yet open, saying it could have accommodated 2,000 guests.
