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WILKES-BARRE — U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta was one of several members of Congress who got some serious face time Thursday with President Donald Trump in the White House.
Barletta, R-Hazleton, said the meeting lasted more than one hour and included a visit and picture-taking in the Oval Office.
Barletta said Trump asked the members — all Republicans — to stop by for a visit to show his thanks for their support during the presidential campaign. Al of the attendees were early supporters of Trump.
“He wanted to reach out to those of us who stuck our necks out early by endorsing him for the presidency,” Barletta said. “He also offered some insight into what he’s been doing and his plans for the future.”
U.S. Rep. Tom Marino, R-Lycoming Township, presented Trump with items from Little League Baseball, which is headquartered in Williamsport.
Vice President Mike Pence also attended the meeting. Members of Congress in attendance included: Bill Schuster, R-Pennsylvania; Marsha Blackburn, R-Tennessee; Chris Collins, R-New York; Billy Long, R-Louisiana; Kevin Cramer, R-North Dakota; Mike Kelly, R-Pennsylvania; Scott DesJarlais, R-Tennessee; Tom Reed, R-New York; and Duncan Hunter, R-California.
Barletta said the White House invitation is a clear indication of how Trump feels about the members and their support of his candidacy.
“No question because of our early endorsement and support and taking a risk, he is giving us access to him in the White House,” Barletta said. “The we were invited to a face to face meeting with him is significant. Not many members get to do that.”
Barletta said Trump appreciates loyalty, and he feels Trump will be accessible to listen to the concerns of the members who attended the Thursday meeting.
“President Trump appreciates loyalty and part of that appreciation is to let us know that we will have his ear on any concerns we have and we know we can bring them to him,” Barletta said. “To have that direct access will help us back home in our districts and in our states.”
Barletta said during a closed door session, Trump expressed his concern about recent high level security leaks, and he vowed that those responsible will be dealt with severely.