Overview

• President Donald Trump has skipped the White House Correspondents' Dinner for the fourth time, continuing his strained relationship with the press.
• The WHCA canceled comedian Amber Ruffin's appearance to avoid political division, marking the second time under Trump’s presidency that the event has opted for a serious tone over humor.
• The Trump administration’s recent control over press pool access, including barring the Associated Press, was overturned by a federal judge but remains a flashpoint in press–White House relations.
• This year’s scaled-back dinner features fewer celebrity attendees and side events, reflecting economic pressures and a shift away from its traditionally glamorous atmosphere.
• The event emphasizes journalistic excellence and First Amendment scholarships, with WHCA President Eugene Daniels describing it as a critical moment for the free press.