President Trump signed the tax cut bill into law this morning from his desk in the Oval Office so that it kicks in next year. He was most gracious, even to the hastily assembled news media, in a very informal signing ceremony bereft of other notable personages. This was a kinder and gentler Donald Trump that more of America needs to see.

A particularly nice touch: instead of handing the signing pens to the politicians, who were not present anyway, he offered the souvenirs to the news camera men and microphone boom holders — the faceless laborers of the news industry.

Trump said that he had no plans to go across the country to sell the tax cut, that it would sell itself when taxpayers open their paychecks in February.

Trump took additional questions even as aides tried to scoot the news media out of the Oval Office. Most touching, toward the end, President Trump said he learned something about working with Congress. “I think I have,” Trump said. “One thing I really learned is I learned and got to know and became very friendly with the people in the House, the people in the Senate, both Republicans and Democrats.”

“When I came, you know, I didn’t know too many. I was very politically active but didn’t know too many. The fact that I’ve become friends with so many of the names I read off and so many of the senators, so many of the congressmen and women, I think that’s a huge factor.”

Trump said that he could “call anybody now” and he understands the legislation “very well.”  If anything, the businessman would know tax policy, “expensing,” and the like. But he gave the impression on the failed overhaul of health care that the subject mystified him. (“Who knew health care would be so complicated.”) Now he’s willing to work with experts.

“So, you know, it’s been a process. A great process. Really beautiful. But I do believe— I do believe that the fact that I have gotten to know so many of these people and many of these people I have to say — not saying all, but I’m saying many of these people are great people that truly love this country. So I think that helps. I think you’ll see that in this legislation.”

His words on the tax code overhaul were welcome and reassuring.

Blaska’s Bottom Line: Encore! More of where that came from!