WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump criticized the media, mocked his political opponents and reignited speculation over a possible third-term bid during the rescheduled White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) Dinner on Friday, months after the annual event was disrupted by an alleged assassination attempt.
Trump addressed journalists and political figures at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Washington, where the dinner was relocated after security concerns following the April incident.
The president began his speech by reflecting on the attack that forced the original event to be postponed.
“The show must go on,” Trump said, before turning to issues that have dominated his political messaging, including criticism of the media and his opponents.
Why Did Trump Revive Third-Term Talk During the White House Correspondents’ Dinner?
Trump once again raised the idea of remaining in office beyond the constitutional limit of two terms, though he presented the remarks as a joke.
“Just like my presidency, the second time is always better. And the third time is better yet,” Trump said.
The president later displayed a red “Trump 2028” cap and joked about announcing a future campaign, saying he intended to run for another term before adding that he was only joking.
The US Constitution’s 22nd Amendment prevents any president from being elected more than twice, making a third presidential term legally prohibited.
Trump’s remarks echoed comments he has made at political rallies, where he has frequently used humor and speculation about his political future to energize supporters.
How Did Trump’s Remarks Highlight His Ongoing Battle With the Media?
Trump used much of his address to criticize news organizations, accusing some journalists of unfair coverage and repeating his long-standing claims against what he describes as “fake news media.”
“This place is really the largest group of Trump derangement syndrome people ever put together at one time,” Trump said, referring to the journalists attending the dinner.
The president also joked about journalists receiving awards for reporting on his administration, saying the evening had not been easy because of the recognition given to reporters covering his presidency.
Despite his criticism, Trump ended his speech by saying he had “tremendous respect” for journalists in the room, while adding that they would struggle after he leaves office.
The appearance marked Trump’s first WHCA Dinner attendance after years of tension with the press. During his previous presidency, Trump frequently clashed with media organizations and skipped the annual event.
Security Tightened After April Assassination Attempt
The dinner was held under increased security following an alleged assassination attempt that forced the cancellation of the original event in April.
Authorities moved the gathering from the Washington Hilton to the Waldorf Astoria and established a security perimeter around the venue. Guests were required to present identification and registration details before entering.
California resident Cole Allen, 31, has pleaded not guilty to charges including attempting to kill the president in connection with the April incident.
Outgoing WHCA President Weijia Jiang said the return of the event showed that journalists would not be discouraged by threats.
“Tonight our message is this: We are back. We will not be intimidated. We will not let an act of violence have the final word,” Jiang said.
Secret Service Warns of Rising Threat Environment
Secret Service Director Sean Curran defended security measures during the April incident, saying the system worked and prevented the alleged attacker from reaching the main hall.
Curran, who was also present during the 2024 assassination attempt against Trump at a campaign rally, said threats against senior US officials had increased significantly.
“The threat picture and environment is as large as I’ve ever seen it,” Curran said.
The rescheduled dinner included a performance by mentalist Oz Pearlman and a tribute to a Secret Service agent involved in stopping the alleged attacker.
The WHCA Dinner traditionally brings together presidents, journalists, government officials and public figures for an evening of political humor and media recognition. Trump’s return to the event highlighted both his continued influence over US political debates and his ongoing confrontation with sections of the American media.