Trump’s Remarks at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner

During his speech at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Trump expressed ‘tremendous respect’ for the journalists present, despite feeling unfairly treated sometimes. He thanked the association for hosting him and emphasized his goal of making America great. He concluded by saying, ‘We have made America great again, and it’s going to get a lot greater.’

Trump humorously remarked the media would ‘be broke’ after he leaves office, even joking about running for a fourth term. He donned a ‘Trump 2028’ hat, showing his playful engagement with the theme of term limits.

His comments on term limits in Congress garnered little laughter, as he shared a story about a senator receiving a humorous text from his wife. Trump appeared surprised by the audience’s lack of response to his joke.

Trump did not hold back when targeting members of the press who have criticized him, singling out CNN’s Kaitlan Collins and Wall Street Journal reporter Josh Dawsey. He took the opportunity to express his displeasure with their reporting.

The President referenced the 2011 White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where Obama targeted him with jokes. He recounted how the moment was perceived as influencing his decision to run for office, but it was not.

He acknowledged his absence from previous dinners, citing unfair treatment from the press. He assured attendees of his return next year.

In his speech, Trump targeted several journalists and celebrities. He criticized Jane Fonda and Bette Midler for counter-programming during a UFC fight at the White House and commented on Bruce Springsteen’s appearance.

Trump also provocatively recognized the incoming WHCA president, Jacqui Heinrich, as someone tough and ‘nasty,’ expressing, ‘She looks so beautiful, but she can be so nasty.’

Reflecting on the shooting occurrence at the April dinner, Trump praised the bravery of figures like Pete Hegseth and Stephen Miller. He joked about the reporters taking shelter during the event.

As he began the evening, Trump admitted the night had been challenging due to the dinner reshuffle and awards distribution, joking about having a say in these recognitions.

Trump appreciated the Wall Street Journal winning an award for its reporting on his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, despite Trump’s legal threats.

Journalist Tyler Pager received an award recognizing fair, impartial reporting on Trump. The recognition came amid Pager’s subpoena by the Department of Justice over his reporting. He was acknowledged for his objective coverage of Trump’s initial second-term year.

ABC’s Jonathan Karl asserted the significance of Trump’s presence at the dinner, noting, ‘It matters that you came here tonight.’

During the dinner, Trump maintained a cordial demeanor, even shaking hands with journalists recognized with awards, including those he has sparred with.

Wolf Blitzer paid tribute to CNN’s founder, Ted Turner, recalling how Turner instilled journalistic passion and the importance of reporting fairly and accurately.

Jacqui Heinrich denounced political violence, emphasizing that journalism can promote understanding and inform decisions, particularly in an era where misinformation can create divides. She praised Trump’s participation in upholding the essential role of a free press.

Brian Bennett praised scholarship recipients, noting their dedication as they reported on the shooting during April’s dinner.

U.S. Secret Service Officer Victor Gonzales received the WHCA President’s Award for Exceptional Service after confronting the gunman during April’s attack.

Attendees watched a video montage depicting Trump’s varied interactions with the press, highlighting his accessibility and engagement with journalists.

The WHCA dinner’s return to the Washington Hilton venue was announced, despite past events being interrupted by an assassination attempt.

Amid the dinner’s calm surroundings, the video montage replayed clips from the April dinner’s shooting incident, reminding guests of the past event while showcasing the aftermath.

WHCA President Weijia Jiang emphasized the joint responsibility shared by the press and the presidency, highlighting both roles in serving the American public. Despite the challenging dynamics between press and politics, Jiang noted dedication is essential.

The dinner this time features increased space between tables, contrasting the crowded settings of past events.

The dinner is attended by members of Trump’s cabinet and Republican lawmakers, showcasing political presence on the less ceremonious dinner’s guest list. The event also features charitable gestures, with the WHCA donating unserved dinners to local shelters during April’s event.

Weijia Jiang kicked off the dinner with firm symbols of unity against political violence while welcoming the guests, underscoring the importance of resisting intimidation and maintaining democratic values.

Heightened security measures surround the dinner setting, demonstrating intense preparation following the tumultuous occurrences of the previous event.