President Donald Trump responded to the public outcry over his administration’s decision to reverse an Obama-era ban of elephant and big game hunting trophies from Africa.
“Put big game trophy decision on hold until such time as I review all conservation facts,” Trump wrote on Friday night. “Under study for years. Will update soon with Secretary Zinke. Thank you!”
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service, under the Department of Interior, was scheduled to revoke the Obama-era ban on Friday, but Trump stepped in after conservative voices criticized the proposed move.
“I don’t understand how this move by @realDonaldTrump Admin will not INCREASE the gruesome poaching of elephants,” Fox News Host Laura Ingraham wrote on Twitter in reaction to the news.
Conservative radio host Michel Savage also signaled his opposition to the idea.
Chelsea Clinton also expressed her outrage to the proposed ban reversal.
After Trump’s announcement earned him favorable media coverage, Trump mentioned it again on Twitter.
“Big-game trophy decision will be announced next week but will be very hard pressed to change my mind that this horror show in any way helps conservation of Elephants or any other animal,” Trump wrote.