A shooting outside the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday night prompted the evacuation of President Trump and other top officials, leaving lawmakers and political figures deeply unsettled. Rep. Brian Jack (R-Ga.) described it as "a horrible, horrible moment for our country" as he exited the postponed event.
The incident unfolded as attendees, including members of Congress, were seated near the rostrum. Rep. Nanette Barragan (D-Calif.), who was in the vicinity, told Axios "it's insane … that this is happening at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Security is supposed to be top notch."
Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) was pulled into a secure room by House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), a survivor of a previous mass shooting. Moskowitz, a Parkland resident and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School alumnus, texted Axios: "I am glad everyone is okay." Former New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (R) called the situation "shocking."
The assailant, armed with multiple weapons, attempted to breach the event, according to initial reports. Security protocols successfully contained the threat, but the breach of such a high-profile gathering has raised questions about event safety protocols.
The White House Correspondents' Association has not yet commented on future security measures. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about political violence in the United States, with lawmakers from both parties expressing a mix of relief and alarm.