The infant’s adopted parents, Andre and Jordan Anchondo, were both killed in the supermarket massacre in El Paso, which left 22 people dead. The child suffered a broken hand when his mother saved his life after she fell on to him, shielding him from bullets. But when the baby, called Paul, was brought to the President at the University Medical Centre of El Paso, both Mr Trump and First Lady Melania beamed for cameras.
While Melania held the baby in her arms, Trump gave a thumbs-up, which commentators have deemed highly inappropriate.
The photo was posted to the First Lady’s official Twitter account, with the caption: “I met many incredible people in Dayton, Ohio, and El Paso, Texas, yesterday. Their communities are strong and unbreakable. I stand with you!”
All eight adult patients who are still at the medical centre refused to meet Mr Trump, the Washington Post newspaper reported.
Meanwhile, the President said yesterday that “serious discussions” over background checks for gun purchases are taking place following the mass shooting in El Paso and a similar atrocity in Dayton, Ohio. In all, 31 people were killed in the two incidents that shocked America.
In tweets, President Trump said that mentally ill and “deranged” people should not have access to firearms, while conceding he had spoken with the National Rifle Association over the issue.
He said: “Serious discussions are taking place between House and Senate leadership on meaningful background checks.
“I have also been speaking to the NRA, and others, so that their very strong views can be fully represented and respected.
“Guns should not be placed in the hands of mentally ill or deranged people.
“I am the biggest Second Amendment person there is, but we all must work together for the good and safety of our country. Common sense things can be done that are good for everyone.”
However, chief executive of the NRA Wayne LaPierre, has warned Trump against backing a bill to expand background checks.
Gun rights activist LaPierre told the President he would lose support if he follows through with the move.
Trump relies heavily on the gun lobby for their support.
The NRA reportedly donated millions to the President’s 2016 campaign and were a significant factor in his victory.