Donald Trump expressed strong disapproval towards a journalist who referenced excerpts from the manifesto of the suspected shooter during a 60 Minutes interview following the incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
Trump, accompanied by his wife and other high-ranking administration officials, was swiftly escorted to safety by Secret Service agents as gunfire erupted at the Washington Hilton, where attendees sought refuge under tables.
Despite one officer sustaining a hit, wearing protective gear ensured their recovery was expected. Authorities believe the attack targeting Trump and other government figures was intentional.
The alleged perpetrator, 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, reportedly sent messages to his family moments before the shooting, identifying himself as a “Friendly Federal Assassin” and airing grievances against the US government. Allen is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.
During the CBS interview with Norah O’Donnell, Trump vehemently objected when she referenced the manifesto contents that labeled him as a “paedophile, rapist, and traitor,” asserting his innocence and distancing himself from the accusations.
Allen’s manifesto outlined his targets as “administration officials,” in a hierarchical order, excluding FBI Director Kash Patel. Notably, anti-Trump and anti-Christian sentiments were found on Allen’s social media accounts, depicting a strong disdain for the current administration.
Trump disclosed that the First Lady was visibly shaken by the incident and praised her strength and composure in handling the situation. Melania Trump’s reaction to the event was described as composed and attentive by the President.
Trump’s remarks highlighted the First Lady’s awareness and response to the unfolding events, emphasizing her resilience and understanding throughout the ordeal.