President Donald Trump addressed the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) Dinner, opting for a more unified and grateful tone than initially planned, months after an assassination attempt forced the event's postponement. The president acknowledged the circumstances of the rescheduled dinner, where he had previously prepared a more combative speech.
"The speech that I had ready just a short while. Oh, that was going to be a doozy. I was so psyched. I was going to rip people. And I don't know, just something changed it — really for the better. But I just wouldn't want to do that," Trump stated to the attendees.
Trump, who entered to Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the U.S.A.," joked about seeking a third term before expressing gratitude to the Secret Service for their protection, particularly in light of the April incident. His remarks extended to over an hour, with the president noting, "Just like my presidency, the second time is always better. It's always better, and the third time will be better yet. I'm only kidding."
The president used the occasion to target political figures, including Democrats and members of his own administration. He made jest of California Governor Gavin Newsom, former Vice President Kamala Harris, and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. Trump also commented on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's stances regarding the Israel-Hamas war.
During his address, Trump advocated for term limits in Congress. He also highlighted the new White House Ballroom, referencing its construction and potential use for future events.
The WHCA honored U.S. Secret Service Officer Victor Gonzales for his actions during the attempted assassination of Trump at the original dinner. Gonzales is credited with confronting the armed suspect, Cole Allen, preventing him from reaching the ballroom. Allen has pleaded not guilty to charges including attempting to assassinate the president.
In his closing remarks, Trump, donning a "TRUMP 2028" hat, announced his intention to run for a fourth term as president.