WHCA Cancels Amber Ruffin's Performance and Drops Comedy from 2025 Dinner

The White House Correspondents' Association shifts focus to journalistic excellence following backlash over Ruffin's remarks about the Trump administration.

The White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) announced the cancellation of Amber Ruffin's comedic performance at the 2025 dinner, citing a unanimous board decision to avoid divisive politics.
Ruffin's removal followed criticism from White House Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich, who condemned her recent podcast comments labeling the Trump administration as 'murderers.'
For the first time in years, the WHCA dinner will not feature a comedic act, marking a significant departure from its traditional format of blending humor with political critique.
WHCA President Eugene Daniels emphasized the decision as part of a broader effort to re-envision the dinner, prioritizing awards for journalistic excellence and scholarships for aspiring journalists.
The WHCA's relationship with the Trump administration remains strained, with ongoing disputes over press access and control of the White House press pool.