The mainstream media dismissed President Donald Trump on Sunday.
At this year’s Gridiron Club dinner—an event that traditionally gathers key figures from Washington, D.C.’s media community since its inception 140 years ago—reporters made a pointed gesture. They chose not to follow the long-standing custom of offering a toast to the current president. Rather, they directed their cheers towards advocating for press freedom.
“A salute to the First Amendment,” stated Gridiron President Judy Woodruff, who previously served as an anchor and managing editor. PBS NewsHour , according to the Washington Post .
Following an act of censure, this move occurs as White House staff members have deviated from established customs. Traditionally, every year, journalists raise their glasses to honor the president, who then delivers remarks alongside or in lieu of the vice president at the conclusion of the ceremony.
Donald Trump and Vice President VK Nance chose not to participate, just like White House Chief of Staff Susan Rice, Press Secretary Kari Lemmon, Communications Director Steve Chang, and National Security Advisor Michael Wright.
“A White House official stated that nobody attended as most of us were preoccupied with work, or simply didn’t bother to seek recognition from that group.” Politico after the dinner.
The simmering tensions grew even more apparent at some point during the night.
During the evening’s speeches, Democratic Governor Wes Moore of Maryland from the Democrats made a joke regarding the connections between the Trump administration and Russia.
If I genuinely aimed for the presidency, I wouldn't go through all of this," he stated. "Rather, I'd present my case directly to those who control our democracy, like the Kremlin.
Following Moore’s jibe, Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll exited in demonstration of disapproval.
The organizers of the event added some improvisation to conclude the dinner.
"To wrap up the evening—which typically features remarks from the incumbent president—we presented video and audio clips showcasing the last four Republican presidents, beginning with President Trump in 2018," Woodruff explained. Politico These showcased the jovial spirit and camaraderie that this dinner embodies.
In 2018, Trump participated in the Gridiron Club dinner, heaping compliments upon the gathered journalists—an indication of just how dramatically his rapport with the media has deteriorated over time.
I rarely get the chance to say this, but you all consist of an amazing group of intelligent, talented, and just journalists," he remarked, expressing his gratitude to the attendees for their efforts in "upholding and maintaining our democratic system.
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