A seismic shift in Washington protocol is about to occur. Former President Donald Trump will attend the White House Correspondents' Dinner this Saturday, marking his first appearance at the event during his time as commander in chief.
This return to the annual dinner resurrects a complex history. For years, Trump deliberately avoided the event, a pointed statement about his deeply strained relationship with the press and the established political order.
The decision immediately conjures memories of the 2011 dinner, a night that arguably planted a seed for his eventual presidential run. Then-President Barack Obama, with comedian Seth Meyers at his side, directly addressed Trump in the room.
Obama’s remarks, delivered with a playful yet pointed tone, centered on Trump’s relentless questioning of his birth certificate. “Now, I know he's taken some flak lately, but no one is happier…to put this birth certificate matter to rest than The Donald,” Obama quipped to laughter.
The jokes didn’t stop there. Obama playfully suggested Trump could now focus on more pressing matters, listing conspiracy theories like the moon landing and the fate of Tupac and Biggie Smalls. The moment was a clear illustration of the existing tension between Trump and the Washington elite.
Many observers believe the perceived mockery fueled Trump’s ambition, contributing to his surprising entry into the 2016 presidential race and his eventual victory. While Trump himself publicly dismissed this theory, the narrative persisted.
Comedian Seth Meyers, taking the stage after Obama, added to the playful jabs. He remarked, “Donald Trump has been saying that he will run for president…which is surprising since I just assumed he'd be running as a joke.”
Trump, reflecting on those years, has described the dinner as an experience where he was treated “rudely and crudely.” He attributed his subsequent absences to the perceived hostility of the press during the event.
However, in a surprising turn, Trump recently acknowledged a fondness for the 2011 exchange. He stated he “loved it” and found it “very nice,” a sentiment that contrasts with his earlier criticisms.
This year’s attendance is framed as part of the celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The First Lady will accompany him, signaling a potential shift in approach.
The dinner was paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, resuming in 2022 under President Biden. Trump’s absence continued until now, making this year’s appearance a significant moment for both him and the White House Correspondents’ Association.
For years, the banquet served as a backdrop to a contentious relationship with the media, particularly during the height of coverage surrounding the Russia investigation. Now, a new chapter is set to unfold.
