The annual tradition of the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner has been celebrated for over a century. This event, which takes place in Washington, D.C., is an opportunity for the press to set aside their notebooks and microphones for an evening of camaraderie and networking. The dinner honors the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of the press in the United States, as well as the current president.
During this year’s dinner, President Joe Biden delivered a humorous speech filled with jokes about his age and his Republican opponent, Donald Trump. Prior to the dinner, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the Hilton hotel to protest against Israel’s support from Washington in relation to Gaza. Inside, nearly three thousand guests mingled in tuxedos and formal attire while Biden avoided addressing the situation in the Middle East or his support for Benjamin Netanyahu in his speech.
The only one who mentioned journalists who had lost their lives in recent conflicts was NBC’s Kelly O’Donnell, who also highlighted the plight of detained journalists like Evan Gershkovich and Austin Tice. Biden used his speech to downplay concerns about his age and jab at Trump, who had previously avoided attending correspondents’ dinners while he was President. Comedian Colin Jost provided a comedic response to Biden’s speech by making lighthearted jabs at other political figures and media outlets.
The gala was attended by various celebrities and influencers, creating a lively atmosphere that resembled “Oscars of Washington.” As the evening came to an end, attendees left for exclusive after-parties while a few protesters continued their objections outside. Biden departed amidst heightened security due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, underscoring
