President Donald Trump commended the swift actions of the Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies tonight after an armed suspect attempted to breach security at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, describing their response as “incredible” and crediting them with protecting lives.

Speaking after being evacuated from the Washington Hilton, Trump recounted the tense moments and said the incident, while dangerous, also brought people together in an unexpected way.

“A man charged a security checkpoint armed with multiple weapons, and he was taken down by some very brave members of Secret Service,” Trump said at the White House. “They acted very quickly.”

Trump said one Secret Service agent was shot at close range during the confrontation but was unharmed due to a bulletproof vest.

He added that he spoke directly with the agent afterward, noting the individual was “in great shape” and maintaining a positive outlook following the incident.

The president also directed that video footage of the attack be released, saying it would demonstrate the professionalism and bravery displayed by law enforcement during the situation.

He referred to the suspect as a “thug” who “attacked our Constitution,” suggesting the episode reflects a broader trend of political violence in recent years.

The shooting unfolded outside the ballroom during the annual dinner—often referred to as the “Nerd Prom”—which Trump said is meant to honor free speech and bring together members of the media and political leadership.

Even amid the disruption, Trump said the experience fostered a sense of unity among those present.

“I saw a room that was just totally unified … Republicans, Democrats, independents … there was a tremendous amount of love,” he said.

Reports from Reuters and AFP indicated that the suspect was detained near a security checkpoint before gaining access to the main event area, likely preventing additional casualties.

Inside the ballroom, attendees took cover beneath tables as security personnel moved quickly to secure the scene.

Trump used the moment to advocate for stronger protective measures in Washington, including the construction of a more secure White House ballroom equipped with features such as bulletproof glass and defenses against drones.

“This is why we need levels of security that probably nobody has ever seen before,” he said.

He also referenced prior attempts on his life, including the 2024 rally shooting in Pennsylvania and another foiled plot in Florida, pointing to what he described as a continuing threat environment.

Despite the incident, Trump stressed that acts of violence would not disrupt public events or intimidate the nation.

“We’re not going to let anybody take over our society,” he said, adding that the dinner would be rescheduled within 30 days.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the suspect, while Trump urged Americans to handle political disagreements peacefully, even as he reiterated his focus on maintaining law and order.

{Matzav.com}