WASHINGTON, United States: President Donald Trump mixed jokes with attacks on journalists and political opponents at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on July 24, marking his first presidential appearance at the annual gala.
Trump began his speech with lighter remarks but increasingly adopted themes associated with his political rallies. His address lasted more than an hour, Reuters reported.
The president described himself as highly accessible to journalists and claimed his administration supported press freedom. He said speaking directly to reporters gave him “a shot at getting a good story.”
Several scripted jokes received a muted response. Trump then criticised his speechwriters and called the address a “freaking stupid speech” after one joke failed to draw the reaction he expected.
The association held the rescheduled dinner at the Waldorf Astoria under heightened security. It had cancelled the original April 25 event after a gunman breached a Washington Hilton security checkpoint.
The US Department of Justice charged Cole Tomas Allen, 31, with attempting to assassinate the president and two firearm offences. Allen allegedly shot Secret Service officer Victor Gonzales in his protective vest before officers arrested him, according to court details released by the department. Reuters reported that Allen pleaded not guilty in May.
Read:Trump Rural Approval Falls 14 Points in Fox News Poll
The dinner honoured Gonzales and Washington Hilton employees with awards for exceptional service. The White House Correspondents’ Association credited the officer with helping stop the gunman from reaching the ballroom.
Trump had boycotted the dinner during his previous presidential years. However, he told attendees that he planned to return next year.
