Trump Praises “High IQ” Child in Christmas Eve Santa Call

President Donald Trump spoke to children on Christmas Eve. The calls were part of a long-running tradition. The North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD, tracks Santa’s journey each year.

Military personnel connect children with Santa Claus. The President and First Lady often participate. This year, Trump took calls at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.

A Memorable Exchange Goes Viral

One conversation quickly spread online. A video was posted by the White House Rapid Response team. In it, Trump asks a child what they want for Christmas.

The child hesitates at first. They then say they want a Kindle e-reader. Trump seems surprised by the answer.

He asks the child to repeat the request. “A Kindle,” the child says again. Trump’s response was immediate and notable.

“Oh well… that’s pretty good,” the President said. He then added, “You must be a high-IQ person.” The child laughed happily after hearing the comment.

Trump continued his thought. “We need more high-IQ people in the country,” he stated. The remark was one of several colorful moments from the calls.

According to Reuters, the event is a lighthearted holiday tradition. It is meant to foster Christmas cheer. Presidents from both parties have taken part for decades.

The Tradition of NORAD Tracks Santa

The NORAD Santa tracker began in 1955. A newspaper ad misprinted a phone number for children to call Santa. The number connected to NORAD’s predecessor command.

Colonel Harry Shoup answered the first call. He played along and gave Santa’s “location.” A tradition was born that night.

Today, volunteers handle thousands of calls and emails. The program has a dedicated website and mobile apps. Families can follow Santa’s imagined journey globally.

The involvement of the President is a modern addition. It adds a layer of public interest. The calls are typically casual and unscripted.

This often leads to memorable exchanges. Presidents may joke with children or offer simple holiday wishes. The focus remains on seasonal joy and generosity.

The “high IQ” comment highlights another unique moment in this annual event. It underscores how even traditional ceremonies can produce unexpected, viral moments in modern political life.