NORAD Tracks Santa: Trump Engages with Children on Christmas Eve

On December 24, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) shifted its focus from monitoring potential threats in the skies to a beloved holiday tradition: tracking Santa Claus as he delivers presents worldwide. This initiative has become a significant event, requiring extensive manpower and resources to engage with children globally and provide them with real-time updates on Santa’s journey.

Every year, NORAD employs its dedicated staff to handle the influx of inquiries from the public. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the NORAD Santa Tracker, and photos from the headquarters showcased employees in military camouflage, adorned with festive decorations and Santa hats. The staff fielded calls from children eager to learn about Santa’s whereabouts, creating a joyful atmosphere that contrasts with their usual defense operations.

Among those participating in this whimsical tradition were former U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. During their interactions with the children, Mr. Trump took the opportunity to share his views on the importance of Santa’s character. He emphasized the need to ensure that only “good” Santa visits the United States, saying, “We want to make sure that Santa is made good. Santa is a very good person.”

Trump’s comments included references to his political experience, particularly regarding Oklahoma, which he noted had been supportive during his election campaign. His remarks, while festive, also infused a political tone, illustrating how even a holiday tradition can intertwine with political messaging.

The NORAD Santa Tracker has grown into a cultural phenomenon, allowing families to share in the excitement of Christmas Eve. Originally initiated in 1955, the program has evolved with technology, now featuring online maps and social media updates that engage millions of children and parents alike. Each year, NORAD tracks Santa’s journey at speeds exceeding 650 miles per second, or more than 2.3 million miles per hour, as he travels around the globe.

This unique mission highlights the interplay between security and festivity, capturing the spirit of the season while maintaining NORAD’s commitment to protecting North American airspace. As children await Santa’s arrival, NORAD remains a beacon of holiday cheer, providing a sense of wonder and connection during this special time of year.