Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Jul 25: US President Donald Trump said on Friday (local time) that he intends to attend next year's White House Correspondents' Dinner, using his first full appearance at the event since returning to office to combine humour, political commentary and a call for national unity following the shooting that disrupted the annual gathering earlier this year.
Addressing hundreds of journalists, administration officials and invited guests, Trump confirmed that he plans to continue participating in the long-standing tradition, drawing applause from the audience when he announced his intention to return in 2027.
The dinner carried added significance this year after the original event, scheduled in April, was postponed following an armed attack in which a gunman opened fire before being subdued by law enforcement personnel.
Reflecting on the incident, Trump described the attack as an assault on democracy and said the gathering symbolised resilience in the face of political violence. He stressed that differences in a democratic society should be resolved through open debate rather than acts of violence.
Calling the attacker "a deranged loser," the President praised the swift response of security personnel and paid special tribute to Secret Service Officer Victor Gonzalez, who was injured while confronting the gunman.
Trump recounted that Gonzalez had shown exceptional courage during the incident, noting that the officer had initially resisted going to hospital for medical evaluation. He also thanked members of the Secret Service, the Metropolitan Police Department and other law enforcement agencies for their actions. The audience responded with a standing ovation in recognition of the officers' service.
The President revealed that he had originally prepared a far more confrontational speech for the April event but decided to change its tone following the shooting. While acknowledging that he still intended to include some light-hearted criticism, he said the circumstances had prompted a more measured approach.
Throughout his address, Trump alternated between jokes and political remarks while also acknowledging the work of the White House press corps. Although he has frequently criticised sections of the media, he said he respected many of the journalists present and recognised the important role they play.
He also praised White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, joking that she holds one of the most demanding positions in the administration because of her regular interactions with the press.
Trump expressed appreciation for outgoing White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) President Weijia Jiang, saying they had developed mutual respect while working together in the aftermath of the shooting. He also congratulated incoming WHCA President Jackie Heinrich, humorously describing her as a tough and persistent reporter.
The President further suggested that future editions of the White House Correspondents' Dinner could eventually be hosted in a new ballroom currently under construction at the White House. He said the project was progressing on schedule and within budget, adding that it could become the venue for future gatherings.
Concluding his remarks, Trump expressed optimism about the country's future, saying the United States was entering what he described as a new "golden age." His speech ended with him returning to his seat as the Village People's iconic song "YMCA" played in the ballroom.
The White House Correspondents' Association Dinner, first held in 1924, is one of Washington's longest-standing traditions, bringing together presidents, journalists, public officials and media organisations to celebrate press freedom while raising funds for journalism scholarships. Nearly every sitting US president has attended at least one dinner during their time in office.
Earlier in the evening, outgoing WHCA President Weijia Jiang reaffirmed the importance of the First Amendment, saying that while criticism of the media is a legitimate part of democratic discourse, efforts to undermine press freedom pose a broader challenge to the constitutional protections that safeguard both journalists and the public.