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Trump signs executive order to expand employment opportunities for military spouses

Trump honors military spouses
Trump signs executive order on military spouse employment 06:50

At a White House celebration for military mothers and spouses on Wednesday, President Trump signed a new executive order to promote and increase military spouse hiring across the federal government as part of the administration's ongoing efforts to support military families. 

"Military spouses have already shown the utmost devotion to our nation and we want to show you our devotion in return," said Mr. Trump at the event. 

The president said the order will "ensure that you have better access to federal jobs" and will encourage businesses across the country to "expand opportunities for our incredible and talented military spouses."

"America owes a debt of gratitude to our military spouses, we can never repay you for all that you do," he added. 

Mr. Trump also touted his administration's efforts in increasing spending levels for U.S. military efforts by $700 billion. "We're gonna be having the best equipment ever known and next year $716 billion. That also includes raises for our military, first time in 10 years," he said to cheers from the crowd. 

Ahead of the event, Mr. Trump's daughter and White House adviser Ivanka Trump tweeted about the administration's efforts to bring awareness to employment barriers faced by military spouses. She said she had been working with Trump counselor Kellyanne Conway to help bring experts to the White House to learn more. 

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