Each year, the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner brings together Washington’s elite and the media for a night of camaraderie, networking and honoring the First Amendment. This year’s event, held at the Hilton hotel, was no exception.
As guests entered the hotel, they were met by hundreds of protesters outside who voiced their opposition to the ongoing war in Gaza and Washington’s support for Israel. Inside, journalists’ vests were displayed in honor of fallen reporters, including those who lost their lives in recent conflicts in Gaza.
President Biden delivered a humorous speech during which he made light of his age and took jabs at his Republican opponent, Donald Trump. He joked about the upcoming elections and legal troubles facing Trump. Comedian Colin Jost also brought humor to the evening with his jokes about Biden and current events.
Guests at the gala included celebrities like Scarlett Johansson and politicians like governors and secretaries of state. The event is often referred to as “the Oscars of Washington” as it brings together some of the city’s most powerful figures in a more informal setting. After the speeches and jokes, attendees dispersed to exclusive after-parties.
As the night drew to a close and guests left the Hilton, echoes of conflicts such as the war in Gaza lingered in the air. Despite being filled with laughter and celebration, the event served as a reminder of serious challenges that lie ahead for both Washington’s elite and its leaders.