Concerns Raised Over Security at White House Correspondents’ Dinner
During an appearance on “America’s Newsroom,” Speaker of the House Mike Johnson expressed worries about the security measures at the recent White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
The Louisiana Republican described the protective protocols as “a little lax,” and pointed out that the visibility of security seemed inadequate from where he stood.
“From a layman’s perspective, it did look a little lax in terms of getting into the building,” Johnson remarked. “We entered from the back, so I didn’t see the magnetometers and all that, but it doesn’t sound like it was sufficient,” he elaborated.
Speaking about the chaotic situation during the event, Johnson recounted how his security team rapidly took charge and led him to safety, while his wife was escorted separately.
They waited in their motorcade for things to calm down and for more information to come through. Following the incident, Johnson announced that the House Oversight Committee would arrange a formal review and hearing with the U.S. Secret Service to explore how Congress could help, whether via increased funding or other legislative resources.
“This president has faced three failed assassination attempts… this can’t go on. He’s arguably the most attacked political figure in history. While he is resilient, he requires greater protection,” he stated. “I think a thorough reevaluation of how we manage these large events is necessary,” Johnson continued. “We are thankful to law enforcement and first responders who acted so quickly to bring the situation under control. Praying for our country tonight.”
President Trump also shared on Truth Social his perspective on the need for a more secure ballroom on the White House grounds. Senator John Fetterman echoed this sentiment in a post on X.
“We were there front and center. That venue wasn’t built to accommodate an event with the line of succession for the U.S. government,” he said. “After witnessing last night, let’s drop the politics and build the White House ballroom for events like these,” he added.
Johnson later pointed out that Fetterman is “a rare voice” within his party, suggesting that many of his Democratic colleagues have stirred up violence against Trump, his administration, and conservatives more broadly.
“The tone has escalated dramatically. You have prominent figures in the Democratic Party effectively calling for war—using those kinds of metaphors—which incites violence. When you portray the opposition as an ‘existential threat to democracy’ or say they must be ‘stopped at all costs,’ you’re igniting the spark for the kind of tragedy we witnessed on Saturday night,” Johnson asserted.
