Trump Says Suspected Gunman at WHCA Dinner Was Driven by Anti-Christian Sentiment

Washington — President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the man accused of attempting a shooting at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner was motivated by deep-seated religious hatred, particularly anti-Christian sentiment.

In an interview with Fox News, Mr. Trump pointed to a manifesto believed to have been written by the suspect, describing it as evidence of long-standing hostility. “This is very anti-Christian. We are dealing with a sick and dangerous individual,” he said, according to Anadolu Agency.

The incident unfolded at approximately 8:34 p.m. Eastern time at the Washington Hilton, the site of the high-profile dinner that traditionally brings together senior government officials, journalists and public figures. Mr. Trump, the first lady, Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance and hundreds of guests were in attendance.

Authorities identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, Calif. He was reported to have attempted to breach a primary security checkpoint while carrying multiple weapons, including a 12-gauge Mossberg Maverick 88 shotgun and a .38-caliber semi-automatic pistol. Officials said he discharged at least one round before being subdued and taken into custody by Secret Service agents.

A law enforcement officer was struck by gunfire but survived, shielded by a ballistic vest. Mr. Allen sustained a knee injury during the confrontation and is being treated at a hospital.

Investigators said documents recovered from the suspect’s hotel room, along with messages sent to family members prior to the incident, suggested an intent to target government officials. Authorities are also reviewing his social media activity, which reportedly included anti-government and anti-religious rhetoric.

Law enforcement officials, cited by outlets including The Washington Post and CNN, said the investigation remains ongoing, with particular focus on whether the attack is linked to domestic extremism. No official motive has yet been confirmed.

Family members had previously alerted authorities about concerns regarding Mr. Allen’s mental state, though it remains unclear what actions, if any, were taken in response.

Mr. Trump praised the rapid response by the Secret Service, saying it likely prevented a more serious outcome. He also outlined plans to enhance security at the White House complex, including the construction of new facilities with reinforced bulletproof materials and counter-drone defenses.

In a post on Truth Social, the president said all senior officials were safe and announced that the WHCA Dinner would be rescheduled within 30 days.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and interim Washington police chief Jeffery Carroll said the investigation is continuing. Mr. Allen is expected to make his initial appearance in federal court on Monday.

The episode adds to a growing list of politically charged acts of violence in the United States. Data from research organizations such as the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project indicate that incidents of political violence have risen in recent years, with increasing threats directed at public officials and democratic institutions. []