WASHINGTON, D.C. April 25, 2026 — White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt previewed President Donald Trump’s remarks at the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, calling the speech “classic Donald J. Trump” and promising it would be funny, entertaining, and include some sharp jabs at those in attendance.
Leavitt made the comments during a red-carpet interview Saturday night at the Washington Hilton, where the annual black-tie event was held. Speaking to Fox News, she said the president had been personally involved in writing much of the material and described him as a natural at crowd work.
“This speech tonight will be classic Donald J. Trump. It will be funny, entertaining. There’d be some shots fired tonight in the room,” Leavitt said. She added that Trump “keeps it real and says what everyone else is thinking” but often lacks the courage to voice.
The dinner marked the first time Trump has attended the event as president. He boycotted the Correspondents’ Dinner during his first term, when the evening was often used by comedians and journalists to roast him.
Fox News promoted live coverage of the dinner on “Fox News Saturday Night” with host Jimmy Failla, which aired at 9 p.m. ET.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is Washington’s traditional night of political humor, celebrity sightings, and media-industry schmoozing. Trump’s appearance and speech were widely anticipated as a return to the “lion’s den,” with many expecting the president to deliver his signature style of unscripted, pointed commentary.
Leavitt, dressed in a sparkling black gown, appeared relaxed and confident throughout the interview, smiling as she discussed the president’s preparations. She noted that while aides provide input, Trump writes much of the speech himself.
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