President Trump reportedly delayed making a statement on the passing of John McCain because, as the Wall Street Journal reports, he “viewed the news coverage of the former senator’s death as over-the-top and more befitting a president."

President Trump reportedly rebuffed his staff's urgings to make a statement on the passing of John McCain for two days and, according to the Wall Street Journal "viewed the news coverage of the former senator's death as over-the-top and more befitting a president."  Trump is also said to have bristled at the news coverage of the White House flag being returned to full-staff on Monday morning, days prior to McCain's interment. The president later issued a proclamation that the flag should be flown at half-staff and issued a statement on McCain's passing.  "Despite our differences on policy and politics, I respect Senator John McCain's service to our country…I have asked Vice President Mike Pence to offer an address at the ceremony honoring Senator McCain at the United States Capitol this Friday," the president stated.  "Finally, I have asked General John Kelly, Secretary James Mattis, and Ambassador John Bolton to represent my Administration at his services," Trump also noted.
McCain passed away on Saturday after a battle with brain cancer.