WHCA Cancels Comedic Performance at Annual Dinner Following Trump Administration Criticism

The White House Correspondents' Association cites a focus on journalistic achievements as it drops Ruffin's planned appearance amid escalating tensions with the administration.

• The WHCA has canceled comedian Amber Ruffin's performance at its annual dinner, originally scheduled for April 26, 2025.
• WHCA President Eugene Daniels stated the decision was made to avoid 'politics of division' and to emphasize honoring journalistic accomplishments.
• The Trump administration criticized Ruffin's planned appearance, with Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich calling her a 'hateful' comedian.
• This decision follows the administration's recent actions to restrict press access, including barring the Associated Press from White House events.
• The WHCA dinner, a tradition since 1920, has historically included comedic performances targeting the sitting president, though President Trump has not attended in recent years.

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