Donald Trump lashed out at a reporter for citing sections from the gunman’s manifesto during a 60 Minutes interview following the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting. Trump, along with his wife and top administration officials, was escorted to safety by Secret Service agents while attendees sought cover after gunfire erupted at the Washington Hilton. Despite one officer being hit, the incident is believed to have targeted Trump and other high-ranking government figures.
The suspected shooter, identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from Torrance, California, reportedly messaged family members moments before the attack, labeling himself a “Friendly Federal Assassin” and expressing grievances against the US administration. Trump criticized CBS presenter Norah O’Donnell for referencing the manifesto allegedly sent by the suspect, vehemently denying the accusations made against him.
Allen specified in his communication that his targets were “administration officials in descending order of rank,” omitting FBI Director Kash Patel. Trump was indirectly mentioned in Allen’s writings as he denounced a “pedophile, rapist, and traitor.” Authorities also uncovered anti-Trump and anti-Christian content on Allen’s social media profiles, including sentiments critical of the administration’s actions.
Reflecting on the incident, Trump mentioned that the First Lady was visibly shaken by the shooting, emphasizing the intense situation they faced. He praised Melania for handling the situation with strength and composure, highlighting her awareness and calm demeanor throughout the ordeal.
