WHCD Returns After Spring Delay

Summary

Bloomberg's Jeff Mason discusses the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Association dinner, noting the smaller venue created a more intimate atmosphere. President Trump's remarks, including a joke about seeking a fourth term, met mostly straight-faced reactions from the journalist-heavy crowd. The dinner largely followed its original program, and organizers announced a return to the Washington Hilton next year, though debate about its future continues.

• The rescheduled WHCA dinner took place in a much smaller venue with under 700 attendees compared to the usual 2,600.
• The program was nearly identical to the original April event, featuring awards, student scholarships, and a mentalist performance.
• President Trump's speech, which included jokes about a fourth term, received restrained reactions from the predominantly journalist audience.
• The event highlighted awkward moments when awards were given to journalists noted for tough coverage of the White House.
• The dinner's future remains debated; incoming association president Jacqui Heinrich announced it will return to the Washington Hilton next year.
• Conversations continue about the event's size, security, and role amid broader press corps opinions.