Trump bashes 'fake news,' stokes 2028 furore in press gala rerun

Former U.S. President Donald Trump returned to the White House Correspondents' Dinner stage, delivering a speech that blended sharp criticism of the media with a revival of his political ambitions. Three months after an assassination attempt forced the event's postponement, Trump addressed the gathering at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C., calling the attendees "the largest group of Trump derangement syndrome people ever put together at one time."

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This place is really the largest group of Trump derangement syndrome people ever put together at one time.

Initially adopting a conciliatory tone, Trump reflected on the April attack that led to his evacuation. "The show must go on," he stated. However, the speech quickly shifted to a familiar pattern of attacking perceived enemies, beginning with journalists and extending to Democratic opponents. Despite acknowledging a Wall Street Journal team that had published stories on his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, Trump later joked about the awards presented to journalists, suggesting they would struggle financially without his presidency.

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The show must go on.

The former president then reignited speculation about a future run, joking about serving a third term, which is constitutionally barred. He pulled out a red "Trump 2028" cap, announcing with mock seriousness his intention to run for a fourth term. The hour-long address largely mirrored his campaign rallies, even including self-deprecating humor when jokes fell flat. He concluded by expressing "tremendous respect" for the journalists, but added a parting shot: "When I'm gone you're all going to be broke."

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Just like my presidency, the second time is always better. And the third time is better yet.

The event proceeded under heightened security following the assassination attempt on Trump in April, which involved gunshots at the Washington Hilton. The venue was moved to the Waldorf Astoria, a former Trump property, and security measures included sealed roads and a significant police and National Guard presence. Cole Allen, 31, has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the attack.

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I’m only kidding.