US President Donald Trump released his first reaction after the White House dinner shooting.
“Quite a night in DC Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job. They acted quickly and bravely. The shooter was apprehended and I recommended that we ‘LET THE SHOW GO ON’ but we will be fully compliant with law enforcement,” President Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“They’ll make a decision soon. Regardless of that decision, the evening will be much different than planned and we’ll just have to do it all over again,” he added.
President Trump later shared another post.
“Law enforcement has requested that we vacate the premises per protocol, which we will do immediately. I will hold a press conference from the White House press conference in 30 minutes. The First Lady, the Vice President, and all cabinet members are in perfect condition. We will speak with you in half an hour. I have spoken to all the officials in charge of the event, within 3 days we have spoken.”
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Social networks reacted to the president’s message.
“Strong leadership in a chaotic moment. Donald J. Trump kept his focus where it belongs, safety first, while showing determination instead of panic. Praise for law enforcement matters. They acted quickly and stopped a dangerous situation, and that kind of recognition builds confidence when it counts,” one user wrote.
“Thank God you and the first lady are safe, as is your administration in attendance,” another user wrote.
One user commented: “Praying for you, Melanie, JD and the country. This irrational behavior and hatred towards you, your family and your administration must stop.”
“Mr. President, I pray that the hedge is on you, Melania, and everyone present,” chimed in another.
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Shooting at the White House
Saturday night changed dramatically at the famous Washington Hilton hotel in the USA. Reports of gunfire inside the lobby caused immediate panic among attendees. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was in full swing when the incident occurred. The disturbance was reported around 20:45 local time.
Intelligence teams quickly moved in to protect the country’s top leadership. President Trump, Melania Trump and Vice President Vance were taken to safety.
All three were moved to a secure area outside the ballroom. No injuries to senior government officials have been confirmed so far.
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Law enforcement has cordoned off a large area around the hotel. Police officers on the ground pushed guests and onlookers away from the building.
The entire hotel was locked down according to the assessment of the situation. Guests inside scrambled to hide under tables and behind closed doors.
The Correspondents’ Dinner is a longstanding Washington tradition that dates back more than a century. It brings together journalists, politicians, entertainers and public figures every year.
Nothing like this has ever disrupted the event in its entire history. As of Sunday morning, the hotel was still under heavy police presence.
This marked Trump’s first attendance at the dinner since he became president again. His presence alone made the evening politically charged and tense.
