President Donald Trump said he “wasn’t worried” when gunfire erupted during Saturday night’s White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, describing the moment as tense but controlled due to the rapid response of security personnel.
In an interview on 60 Minutes, Trump said he remained calm as the situation unfolded, noting the unpredictability of modern security threats. “I understand life. We live in a crazy world,” he said.
The incident occurred as Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance, cabinet officials, and more than 2,500 guests gathered at the Washington Hilton for the annual event.
Witnesses reported hearing gunshots, prompting immediate panic inside the ballroom as attendees took cover while United States Secret Service agents moved in to secure the area.
Trump said he initially wanted to assess the situation before being evacuated, indicating he was reluctant to leave without understanding what was happening. “I wanted to see what was happening,” he said, recalling that agents instructed him and the first lady to get down as a precaution.
“They said, ‘Please go down to the floor,’” Trump said, noting that the directive signaled the seriousness of the threat. He complied as agents escorted him to safety.
After reaching a secure location, Trump said he even considered returning to the event, underscoring his confidence in the situation being brought under control.
He praised law enforcement and Secret Service personnel for their swift and professional response, saying their actions prevented further harm. “They took him down immediately,” Trump said, adding that the suspect moved “like a blur.”
Reflecting on the incident, Trump noted it was not his first experience with such threats, referencing previous attempts against him and emphasizing the importance of preparedness.
The shooting also drew historical comparisons to the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan, which occurred at the same venue.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, while Trump reiterated confidence in the security measures that protected those in attendance.
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