WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump attended and addressed the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) Dinner for the first time on Friday, marking a historic moment during his two terms in office.
The 2026 WHCA Dinner, held at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C., had originally been scheduled earlier in the year but was postponed following a shooting incident in April.
First WHCA Dinner Appearance
The event marked the first occasion on which Trump addressed the annual gathering of White House correspondents during either of his presidencies.
Trump arrived wearing a “Trump 2028” cap and delivered a speech that mixed humor, criticism of the media, and appreciation for journalists.
Jon Karl Welcomes Trump
ABC News journalist Jon Karl, who delivered the opening remarks, welcomed the president’s attendance and emphasized the significance of his presence.
“Mr. President, I want to say it matters that you came here tonight.”
Karl noted that for more than a century, U.S. presidents have attended the dinner and answered questions from journalists who report independently.
“For more than 100 years, presidents have chosen to sit in a room of reporters who asked tough and often uncomfortable questions, and who report without fear or favour. It’s important. Thank you for being here.”
Event Rescheduled After April Shooting
The annual dinner was postponed after an April security incident in which armed attackers reportedly opened fire at the original venue.
According to reports, the situation was brought under control by the Secret Service, and no fatalities were reported.
The rescheduled event proceeded under heightened security.
Trump Reflects on Relationship With the Press
During his closing remarks, Trump acknowledged his often-contentious relationship with the media while expressing respect for journalists.
“I just want to say, this room—I have tremendous respect for the people in this room.”
He added: “Sometimes I don’t feel you treat me fair, maybe you do, I don’t know.”
Trump continued by saying that although he frequently disagrees with media coverage, he respects the profession.
“Sometimes you treat me fairly, and I have a lot of respect for your profession. It’s amazing. And I just want to thank you for having me, and it’s been fun.”
Familiar Criticism of Media
Throughout his speech, Trump also repeated some of his familiar criticism of the press, again referring to sections of the media as “fake news.” He directed light-hearted jabs at several media organisations and personalities while maintaining a conversational tone.
Despite the criticism, the evening concluded on a cordial note, with Trump’s attendance marking a notable departure from previous years in which he did not participate in the annual White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner.
