Trump Attends WHCD: Press Freedom Test

0:00On April 25, President Donald Trump is heading to the White House Corp. Association dinner on Saturday, marking his first time attending as President. Every sitting president since the event started has shown up at some point, but Trump skipped it during his first term and in 2025. Calling out the press for being too harsh. His relationship with the media stays tense. He sued outlets, labeled stories, fake news, and limited access for some reporters. Still, he chats with journalists way more than past presidents, taking calls on his cell and fielding questions often. Not everyone's thrilled about his invite. Over 350 journalists, including big names like Dan Rather, signed a letter urging the group to push back against his press moves. Some outlets like Huff Post are sitting it out, and a few plans to rock First Amendment pins as a quiet protest. The association stands firm, saying the dinner celebrates press freedom, especially with America's 250th birthday coming up.

1:01Trump cited that milestone on truth social, plus what he calls newfound respect from reporters, as reasons to join and make it the biggest event ever. Things heat up with his recent lawsuits against ABC, CBS, and the Wall Street Journal, some settled or tossed out. He'll speak after 10pm, Eastern following red carpet arrivals at 5pm, turning this black tie night into a real test of that free press. Spirit, you've been listening to entertainment and celebrity news today, AI-powered pop culture coverage.