More than 250 journalists and journalism organisations have called on the White House Correspondents' Association to “forcefully demonstrate opposition” to President Donald Trump at this weekend's annual dinner. The letter, signed by prominent figures including Ann Curry, Sam Donaldson and Dan Rather, argues that Trump's presence contradicts the event's purpose given his “systematic, sustained, and unprecedented attacks on the free press”.
The dinner, traditionally a celebration of the First Amendment and a fundraiser for scholarships, will see Trump attend for the first time as president. The White House Correspondents' Association has removed the customary comedic roast, but the letter urges a member to make a forceful defence of press freedom and condemn those who attack the media.
Trump's relationship with the media has been fraught, with his administration restricting access, launching lawsuits, and verbally insulting reporters. In February 2025, the White House barred Associated Press reporters over the use of “Gulf of Mexico” instead of “Gulf of America”. A federal appeals court upheld the ban in certain areas. The Pentagon also introduced restrictive press rules, deemed unconstitutional by a federal judge.
Trump sued the Wall Street Journal for $10 billion over a letter to Jeffrey Epstein, but a judge dismissed the case. The White House website hosts a “Media Offenders” page, and administration officials have used derogatory language against journalists. Some reporters plan to wear First Amendment pins, but the signatories call for stronger action.
