President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump were abruptly evacuated Saturday night from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton following a security alert that triggered a rapid Secret Service response. Security was already heightened due to Trump’s attendance, with restricted access points, screenings, and a heavy law enforcement presence.
This marked his first appearance at the dinner as president after years of boycotts. According to a press pool report from Jeff Mordock, several loud bangs were heard, prompting agents with guns drawn to rush attendees out while shouting warnings of possible gunfire. Attendees also reported popping sounds near the ballroom as agents escorted the president and first lady through a secured exit corridor.
White House Correspondents’ Association President Weijia Jiang announced that the program would resume. However, the president’s location was unclear at the time. Within a few minutes of the announcement, at 9:17 p.m., Trump posted on Truth Social: “Quite an evening in D.C. Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job.
They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter has been apprehended, and I have recommended that we ‘LET THE SHOW GO ON’ but, will entirely be guided by Law Enforcement. They will make a decision shortly.” Minutes later, he confirmed authorities requested an immediate evacuation, stating all officials, including the vice president and Cabinet members, were safe. The dinner is expected to be rescheduled within 30 days.
