US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner ignored federal recommendations during the coronavirus lockdown so they could travel for Passover celebrations, the White House confirmed.
They went from their home in Washington, DC, to one of the Trump family's golf resorts in Bedminster, New Jersey, to mark the Jewish holiday, which began on 8 April and ends Thursday.
The White House, confirming the story first reported by The New York Times, said the trip did not involve any more outside contact than if Mr Trump and Mr Kushner had stayed put.
Ivanka Trump serves as one of Donald Trump's presidential advisors. Source: AAP
"Ivanka - with her immediate family - celebrated Passover at a closed down facility considered to be a family home. Her travel was no different than if had she been traveling to or from work and the location was less populated than the surrounding area near her home in DC," a statement said.
"While at Bedminster she has been practicing social distancing and working remotely. Her travel was not commercial. She chose to spend a holiday in private with her family."
Washington, DC, has a "stay-at-home" order, meaning that people should avoid non-essential travel.
President Donald Trump walks out of his residence at the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey. Source: AAP
This is in line with White House advice to "avoid discretionary travel", forcing millions of Americans nationwide to exchange their traditional family gatherings over the Easter and Passover weekend for online get-togethers.
Ivanka Trump, who doubles as a presidential advisor, has used her social media fame to plead with Americans to respect the guidelines to help slow COVID-19's spread.
"Every one of us plays a role in slowing the spread, and social distancing saves lives," she said, acknowledging the "enormous challenge individually and collectively" for people under lockdown.
Ivanka Trump with her husband Jared Kushner, both of whom serve as advisors to Donald Trump. Source: AP
Mr Kushner, who like Mr Trump was born into a wealthy real estate dealing family, is also a senior advisor and has been made a key figure in the White House's attempt to handle the virus and the ensuing economic calamity.
Mr Kushner is Jewish and Ivanka converted before marrying.
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If you believe you may have contracted the virus, call your doctor (don’t visit) or contact the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. If you are struggling to breathe or experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.
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