Trump Pitches Clean Coal
President Donald Trump blended Christmas warmth, humor, and a familiar message on Christmas Eve as he and first lady Melania Trump took part in the annual NORAD Tracks Santa calls with children from across the United States.
Calling in from Mar-a-Lago in Florida, the president and first lady spoke with young callers who dialed into the North American Aerospace Defense Command’s beloved holiday hotline — a tradition that has brought joy to American families for nearly 70 years.
Trump Jokes About “Bad Santa” While Speaking With Children
As children shared their Christmas wishes, President Trump jokingly referenced the importance of keeping Santa “good” — and keeping out anyone who shouldn’t be coming in.
“We want to make sure Santa is doing a great job,” Trump told two children from Oklahoma. “Santa is a very good person. We just don’t want a bad Santa sneaking in.”
The lighthearted remark drew laughs and echoed the president’s well-known commitment to strong border security, even during a festive holiday moment.
‘Clean, Beautiful Coal’ Gets a Holiday Mention
Trump also revived the classic Christmas joke about coal — adding his own trademark twist.
When an 8-year-old girl from Kansas said she did not want coal for Christmas, Trump smiled and replied, “You mean clean, beautiful coal. I had to say it — I’m sorry.”
The president quickly reassured her that toys were still on the list.
“What do you really want?” Trump asked.
The child replied that she hoped for Barbies, clothes, and candy.
“Well, candy is good,” Trump said. “Just remember to be healthy.”
Santa Is Already on the Move, Trump Assures Kids
Throughout the calls, Trump told children that Santa was already traveling and would be arriving soon.
“He’s leaving Sweden right now,” the president explained. “Santa will be there in just a few hours.”
A 4-year-old girl from Oklahoma asked when Santa would reach her home.
“Santa is definitely stopping tonight,” Trump said. “He’s bringing you beautiful presents. Really beautiful.”
When she asked for a dollhouse, Trump replied confidently, “I think we can work that out. I think Santa’s going to bring you the nicest dollhouse you’ve ever seen.”
Melania Trump Encourages Kids to Get to Sleep
First lady Melania Trump also spoke with young callers, gently reminding them that Santa only comes once children are asleep.
“It will be very late tonight,” she told one child. “So it’s best if you go to bed, and then Santa will arrive.”
A child from North Carolina asked if Santa would be upset if cookies were forgotten.
“I don’t think he’d be mad,” the president said, “but he might be disappointed. Santa has a pretty serious appetite.”
After Santa Calls, Trumps Thank U.S. Troops Overseas
After finishing the Santa hotline calls, President Trump and the first lady spoke with U.S. military service members stationed overseas, offering Christmas greetings and expressing gratitude to those serving far from home.
The gesture reinforced a tradition Trump has emphasized throughout his presidency — honoring the men and women of the armed forces, especially during the holidays.
NORAD’s Santa Tradition Dates Back to 1955
The NORAD Tracks Santa program began in 1955 after a child accidentally dialed a military hotline while trying to reach Santa Claus. Instead of hanging up, an officer gave the child an update — creating a cherished American tradition.
Each Christmas Eve, NORAD uses the same radar systems, satellites, and aerospace technology that protect North American airspace to “track” Santa’s sleigh around the globe.
A Beloved American Christmas Tradition
The program now receives hundreds of thousands of calls and online visits every Christmas Eve, giving families a fun break from winter weather and modern stress.
Families can follow Santa’s journey by calling 1-877-HI-NORAD or visiting NORADSanta.org, where volunteers provide real-time updates in multiple languages.
For many Americans, the event remains a reminder of timeless values — faith, family, gratitude, patriotism, and Christmas tradition.
