On Friday, President Trump defended Rob Porter, the former White House staff secretary accused of physical and verbal abuse by two ex-wives. Porter resigned Wednesday after the Daily Mail and The Intercept detailed the allegations against him, complete with graphic images.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump noted that Porter "says he's innocent" and insisted, "I think you have to remember that." The president additionally called the accusations "very sad" and said that "it's a tough time" for Porter.
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Observers like CNN's Dana Bash later noted that Trump completely ignored Porter's victims in his remarks. Before Porter's resignation, White House Chief of Staff John Kelly put out a statement calling Porter "a man of true integrity and honor." Kelly has reportedly known about the allegations for several months, and the controversy over Porter's resignation has reportedly directed Trump's ire at Kelly — to the point where Trump is reportedly considering replacing his chief of staff.
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