Trump jets to Paris, leaving political tumult behind

The President and first lady are visiting the French capital for a ceremony commemorating 100 years since the end of World War I, a weighty moment for the world to remember the conflict that did not wind up ending all wars.

Officials say the President will use the moment to underscore the essential role the United States played in restoring European peace and security — and continues to play now, despite Trump’s complaints that it costs too much. Like presidents before him, he will use the trip to escape an unpleasant election outcome that could salt the remaining two years of his term with investigations, subpoenas and gridlock.