White House Says U.S. Hasn't Decided To Compete In Olympics

WASHINGTON, DC — White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Thursday at briefing that the administration has not officially decided whether it will participate in the upcoming Winter Olympics. However, after the briefing, Sanders appeared to change her answer.

"UPDATE: The U.S. looks forward to participating in the Winter Olympics in South Korea," she tweeted. "The protection of Americans is our top priority and we are engaged with the South Koreans and other partner nations to secure the venues."

"No official decision has been made on that," Sanders initially said when asked about participation in the Olympics. "I know the goal is to do so." She cited security concerns as a possible reason the United States not participate.

On Tuesday, Olympics officials announced that Russia would not be allowed to participate in the games due to a widespread doping scandal in the country.

Sanders also addressed questions about recent reports regarding Donald Trump Jr. in connection with the ongoing Russia investigation. However, she deflected these questions, as the White House has consistently said such inquiries should be directed to outside counsel.

The president also continues to work with congressional leadership in an effort to avoid a government shutdown at the end of the week. Sanders said the White House is committed to keeping the government open with a continuing resolution.

Ahead of the briefing, Democratic Sen. Al Franken of Minnesota announced he would resign amid numerous allegations that he inappropriately groped women. During his statement, he said it was "ironic" that he was resigning while Republicans continue to defend Trump, who has been accused by more than a dozen women of sexual harassment and assault. Sanders dismissed these comments and said the issue of Trump's comments about his abusive behavior toward women were addressed during the campaign.

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