President Trump addressed the public after gunfire erupted near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner Saturday evening, commending the rapid response of the Secret Service and other law enforcement and emphasizing national unity.
According to the president, an individual armed with multiple weapons rushed a security checkpoint and was quickly subdued by Secret Service agents. Trump said he ordered release of video showing the attacker being taken down and agents reacting promptly. One officer was struck by gunfire but survived thanks to a bulletproof vest, and Trump described the officer as in good spirits when they spoke.
Trump characterized the dinner as an event dedicated to free speech that nevertheless brought the room together during the incident, calling the display of solidarity striking. He expressed gratitude to the Secret Service, D.C. police and local officials for their actions and said the suspect, whom he described as living in California and as a sick person, would be pursued.
Using the episode to press for tighter protections, Trump argued the current venue is not sufficiently secure and reiterated support for moving events to a more fortified ballroom with features like bulletproof glass and drone defenses. He said the military and Secret Service have long sought such an upgrade to meet modern security needs.
Recalling past threats against Republicans, the president urged Americans to renew their commitment to resolving differences peacefully and noted that people across the political spectrum in attendance came together in the moment. He praised the event organizers and the press for handling the situation responsibly.
Trump said he and the first lady were escorted off stage quickly and thanked aides and officers who assisted. The dinner will be rescheduled within 30 days, he said, and he invited White House staff, including Todd Blanche, to brief reporters and provide further updates.