Marco Rubio joke-investigates Ivanka Trump hug on Twitter
June 21, 2017 - 8:30 am
Updated June 21, 2017 - 9:20 am
WASHINGTON — Sometimes all you can do is surrender to Twitter.
Florida Sen. Marco Rubio probably started out his day Tuesday thinking about paid family leave, child care tax credits and other deep issues. But when Twitter went wild over an awkward photo of him leaning in for a hug with Ivanka Trump when she arrived for a Capitol Hill meeting, Rubio was smart enough to play along.
The photo, taken by an Associated Press congressional reporter with an iPhone, appears to show Trump declining to hug Rubio back as the two greet one another just outside the Capitol.
Twitter users dissected the seemingly awkward moment endlessly. They compared Rubio to Ralph Wiggum from “The Simpsons” when he doesn’t get a Valentine’s Day card, and to Dr. Evil from “Austin Powers” asking his son for a hug.
Rubio responded in a series of joking tweets late Tuesday, announcing that he would be investigating what he termed the “alleged failed hug.”
Just left Intel comm & informed meeting 2day with @IvankaTrump blowing up twitter over alleged failed hug! Investigating. Will respond soon
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) June 20, 2017
We believe we have our own unclassified photographic evidence that will shed greater details on this incident.
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) June 20, 2017
We are also attempting to acquire multi-angle video which we believe will provide greater insight into this important matter.
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) June 20, 2017
If you were filming at the Senate carriage entrance today between 11:20-11:25 am we are seeking your assistance with an active investigation
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) June 20, 2017
New photo emerges providing more insight into alleged failed hug. (Faces blurred for security purposes) pic.twitter.com/GzSLe3JD3I
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) June 20, 2017
BREAKING NEWS: Additional photo from moments right after today's alleged failed hug provide new details to this developing story. pic.twitter.com/TFyhB2cQuM
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) June 20, 2017
Based on review of evidence & my own recollection, have concluded no hug was even attempted & press covfefe of alleged failed hug is false
— Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) June 20, 2017
“We believe we have our own unclassified photographic evidence that will shed greater details on this incident,” the Republican senator said, adding, “We are also attempting to acquire multi-angle video which we believe will provide greater insight into this important matter.”
Rubio then posted a blurry photo, taken at a different moment, showing Trump’s hand on Rubio’s shoulder as he smiles. “New photo emerges providing more insight into alleged failed hug. (Faces blurred for security purposes),” was the accompanying caption.
Several minutes later that was followed up by another photo showing Trump with her hand on Rubio’s shoulder, and the caption “BREAKING NEWS: Additional photo from moments right after today’s alleged failed hug provide new details to this developing story.”
Trump herself joined in Tuesday evening, tweeting: “Anonymous sources say marcorubio planned the alleged failed hug. I have no comment (but I would have hugged him anyway!)”
She then added: “Fake news! Marco is an excellent hugger.”
Anonymous sources say @marcorubio planned the alleged failed hug. I have no comment (but I would have hugged him anyway! 🤗) https://t.co/TChrqWsL4D
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) June 20, 2017
Fake news! Marco is an excellent hugger... https://t.co/Dk7XXRQlX8
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) June 20, 2017
The Associated Press stands by its photo.
There really needs to be more hugs in politics... even failed ones. 😂 @marcorubio @IvankaTrump https://t.co/gD5L3Aw890
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) June 20, 2017