Hundreds of former journalists and eight press freedom organizations urge the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) to address recent media attacks by the Trump administration at the rescheduled dinner. President Donald Trump plans to attend this event.
The initial dinner scheduled in April ended abruptly due to a gunman at the Washington Hilton, reportedly targeting Trump. The dinner now moves to the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in the capital.
A letter, spearheaded by ex-ABC News correspondent Lisa Stark and producer Ian Cameron, highlights growing media hostility. It references Justice Department subpoenas targeting New York Times journalists investigating security issues with the president’s Qatari-funded Air Force One.
The letter mentions Trump’s threats to revoke broadcaster licenses refusing his demands. It implores the WHCA to robustly defend media freedom and resist efforts undermining the First Amendment.
“It is hypocritical to celebrate the First Amendment in front of the man who relentlessly attacks it,” the letter states.
Press freedom groups backing the letter include the Society of Professional Journalists and the Committee to Protect Journalists, among others. More than 520 individuals, mainly retired journalists, signed the letter.
Trump announced his intention to attend the dinner, viewing it as a demonstration of resilience. His Truth Social platform revealed a potential speech, with an undecided approach towards past planned remarks critical of the press.