President Donald Trump is slated to deliver his prepared remarks at a rescheduled White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) dinner on July 29, aiming to make up for the April event that was cut short by a security breach. The speech, which Trump had previously described as potentially "the most inappropriate speech ever made," is anticipated to include sharp critiques of the press and political figures.
Details about the prepared remarks emerged after roast comic Tony Hinchcliffe, who contributed material for the speech, shared insights with fans and on podcasts. Hinchcliffe indicated that the revamped speech would include "some new stuff" and was refined based on feedback from an audience at the Kennedy Center, where he and impressionist Adam Ray performed some of the material in Trump's voice. Topics reportedly targeted for criticism include former Speaker Nancy Pelosi's stock trades, former Governor Chris Christie's weight, and CNN.
Trump himself had teased the content after the April event was canceled due to a gunman being apprehended at a Secret Service checkpoint. He told reporters at the time that he had withheld material he deemed too inappropriate. While he suggested he might be "very nice" and "very boring" at the rescheduled event, sources familiar with the speech's preparation expect him to be unreserved.
This practice of consulting comedians for WHCA speeches is not new; President Barack Obama also sought input from comics like Judd Apatow and Jordan Peele. Trump's speechwriting team, led by Ross Worthington, compiles jokes and ideas, with Worthington reportedly working with the President on Air Force One to finalize the remarks.
The rescheduled dinner will be held at the Waldorf Astoria, a venue that previously housed Trump International Hotel. Security measures are expected to be significantly enhanced for the more intimate gathering, which will also honor the Secret Service officer injured during the initial incident and the Hilton staff who assisted.
Hinchcliffe, known for his roast comedy and hosting the podcast "Kill Tony," has been a vocal supporter of Trump. His past remarks, including a controversial comment about Puerto Rico at a rally, have drawn criticism. Despite this, Hinchcliffe maintains that Trump is a respected figure for his sense of humor among many comedians.