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Donald Trump’s joke falls flat at White House Correspondents’ Dinner as awkward silence fills the room
The US President’s attempt at humour drew little reaction from the audience before he blamed his speechwriters, while the evening also paid tribute to victims of the earlier shooting that delayed the event.
An evening meant to celebrate journalism and public service took an awkward turn after US President Donald Trump delivered a joke that failed to land during the long-delayed White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C.
The annual gala, held at the Waldorf Astoria, featured speeches, tributes and political commentary. However, one of the most talked-about moments of the night came when Trump’s attempt at comedy was met with noticeable silence from the audience.
Trump’s joke receives little response
During his address, Trump shared a risqué joke involving an elderly politician and his wife. The story’s punchline centred on the politician’s age and physical limitations.
Instead of drawing laughter from the crowd, the joke was met with an awkward silence.
Recognising the subdued reaction, Trump briefly attempted to explain the punchline before expressing frustration with the speech prepared for him.
“That was the only thing I thought was good in this whole damn stupid speech they wrote,” the President told those in attendance, drawing fresh attention to the moment.
‘Trump 2028’ cap grabs attention
Later in the evening, Trump surprised attendees by displaying a red cap carrying the slogan “Trump 2028.”
Although the US Constitution limits presidents to two elected terms, Trump has repeatedly joked about seeking another term beyond those limits. The cap echoed similar remarks he has made during recent public appearances, once again fueling political discussion despite there being no constitutional pathway for a third elected presidential term.
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Dinner held months after deadly shooting
This year’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner carried additional significance because it had originally been scheduled several months earlier.
The event was postponed after a deadly shooting near the original venue at the Washington Hilton, where authorities said an alleged gunman identified as Cole Allen opened fire before the gala was due to begin, triggering a large-scale security response.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Trump acknowledged that the incident had changed the tone of his prepared remarks.
“In America, we do not bow to political violence,” he said.
The President added that he had initially planned to deliver a far more combative speech but decided against it following the attack.
“I was all fired up. I was going to rip people apart, and I don’t know… something just changed,” Trump remarked.
Tribute to Secret Service agent
The ceremony also honoured those affected by the April attack.
Secret Service agent Victor Gonzales received the White House Correspondents’ Association President’s Award for Exceptional Service for his actions during the shooting.
According to organisers, Gonzales survived after his body armour stopped a bullet, allowing him to continue protecting attendees despite being injured.
The recognition served as one of the evening’s most emotional moments, highlighting the resilience and dedication of security personnel in the face of political violence.
