Thread by @Yamiche

At the first WH briefing in 42 days, Budget Acting Director Russell Vought is defending President Trump's adding to the national deficit. Vought says there was an economic recovery that was needed when Trump came into office and Congress ignored his cuts for the last 2 years.

Russell Vought says of border wall funding that the administration is focused on spending wall money Congress already gave them and money from national emergency

"This $8.6 billion is geared to what we need in addition to complete that wall."

Q: Does Trump really believe Dems are anti-Jewish?
Sarah Sanders: The president has been a committed ally to Israel. He is disappointed in Dems' failure to call out remarks by their members.
Note: Dems called out Rep. Omar and passed legislation to condemn anti-Semitism.

Sarah Sanders on Chinese trade negotiations: "The president is going to make sure whatever deal we get will be in our best interest."

Q: What is the Trump doing to keep more Repubs from voting against national emergency?
Sarah Sanders: "He is doing his job....He has a constitutional duty to protect the people of this country...Congress...failed to do its job."
She added that president is making calls to Hill.

.@HallieJackson: Does the president really think Dems hate Jews?
S Sanders: Dems are unwilling to call it out by name and take actions like Republicans done...You ought to ask Democrats that question.
(Note: Sarah didn't answer when asked multiple times by multiple reporters.)

Q: Does the president have full confidence in Secretary Acosta?
Sarah Sanders: "I'm not aware of any personnel changes...When I have an update I will let you know."

Sarah Sanders: The president has condemned racism, bigotry, anti-semitism, and hate in all forms.

An incredible part of this briefing: Asked again and again if President Trump really believes that Democrats hate Jews, Sarah Sanders will NOT give a straight answer.

We waited 42 days for this briefing. 42.