The White House has issued a statement in support of Barron Trump after the ten-year-old was made fun of on Twitter. The youngster has been the subject of several jokes, including one made by Saturday Night Live writer Katie Rich, who tweeted that Barron "will be this country's first home-school shooter ".
Although the White House did not respond directly to the jibe, the statement did make clear their thoughts.
"It is a longstanding tradition that the children of Presidents are afforded the opportunity to grow up outside of the political spotlight," the administration said. "The White House fully expects this tradition to continue. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter."
© Photo: Getty ImagesBarron has been subjected to cruel online jokes
SNL writer Katie faced a huge backlash after posting her tweet about Barron. She was promptly suspended from her role on the show.
On Monday, Katie issued an apology on Twitter and deleted all past tweets, including the offensive joke. "I sincerely apologise for the insensitive tweet. I deeply regret my actions & offensive words. It was inexcusable & I'm so sorry," she wrote.
Everything you need to know about Barron Trump
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe ten-year-old is Donald's youngest son
Donald Trump's youngest son Barron, whose mother is Melania, has been subjected to cruel online taunts.
Former First Daughter Chelsea Clinton leapt to the schoolboy's defence following the inauguration, tweeting: "Barron Trump deserves the chance every child does – to be a kid. Standing up for every kid also means opposing POTUS policies that hurt kids." Chelsea was 12 when her father Bill Clinton was elected president, and spent the next eight years calling the White House home.
Monica Lewinsky also expressed her support, tweeting: "All children need to be protected from bullying + mockery (inc. #barrontrump). Let's be better than this."
