White House: Next G7 Will Be Held At Trump National Doral Miami
MIAMI (CBSMiami) - The White House says it has chosen President Donald Trump's golf resort 'Trump National Doral Miami' as the site for next year's Group of Seven summit.
Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney says the move isn't about financial gain for President Trump, instead "it's about bringing world leaders together to discuss global growth and challenges to the economy."
President Trump says the location is perfect, close to Miami's International Airport and offers plenty of hotel rooms and separate buildings for every delegation.
The decision, however, does not come without controversy.
Some believe the president will profit from hosting a major event at his own private club.
Mulvaney responds to the concern, "We play golf at... I would simply ask all of you to consider the possibility that Donald Trump's brand is probably strong enough as it is. He doesn't need any more help on that. This is not like it's the most recognizable name in the English language and probably around the world right now."
The announcement Thursday comes at the same that the president has accused Joe Biden's family of profiting from public office because of Hunter Biden's business activities in Ukraine when his father was vice president.
Doral Mayor Juan Carlos Bermudez released the following statement on the G7 coming to Doral:
"It has just been confirmed that the 2020 G7 summit is coming to the City of Doral. This event will bring seven of the world's leaders to our community, putting Doral on the world stage. This will undoubtedly be a significant undertaking that will require the careful interagency coordination, from local to federal, for security, traffic and logistics. Doral is no stranger to having large events and high-level dignitary visits as US Southern Command is located here along with the offices of other elected officials. We are ready to begin work to ensure a safe and successful event for all involved, with minimal affects to our residents and businesses."
The G7 summit will be held from June 10 to 12. The idea of holding the event at Trump's resort has been criticized by government ethics watchdogs.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez also released a statement, which read in part:
"Our county stands ready to work with federal officials on any security concerns and logistical matters... I welcome the opportunity to showcase our community to the leaders of the G7 nations."
Trump has touted his resort, saying it's close to the airport, has plenty of hotel rooms and offers separate buildings for every delegation.
When the United States has hosted the summit before, it has been held in Puerto Rico; Williamsburg, Virginia; Houston; Denver; Sea Island, Georgia; and Camp David, the presidential retreat in Maryland.
(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)