'Fake News', 'Derangement Syndrome': Trump Rips Into Media At White House Press Dinner

Published 26 July 2026 · us

'Fake News', 'Derangement Syndrome': Trump Rips Into Media At White House Press Dinner Published By, Last Updated: July 26, 2026, 14:57 IST Donald Trump mixed

'Fake News', 'Derangement Syndrome': Trump Rips Into Media At White House Press Dinner Published By, Last Updated: July 26, 2026, 14:57 IST Donald Trump mixed jokes with sharp criticism of the media at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, accusing journalists of spreading "fake news" while defending free speech. Rapid Read US President Donald Trump delivers his address during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner in Washington, DC. US President Donald Trump mixed humour with pointed criticism of the media during the rescheduled White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) dinner, using the annual event honouring journalism to renew his attacks on news organisations he has frequently clashed with. The event marked the first White House Correspondents’ Dinner since April’s shooting forced the cancellation of the original gathering. While Trump began his remarks with jokes and light-hearted comments, his speech soon shifted to familiar attacks on what he described as “fake news" and reporters suffering from “Trump Derangement Syndrome." A Night of Awards and Political Jabs Trump attended the dinner alongside journalists from several media organisations he has publicly criticised and even sued, including The New York Times, CNN and The Wall Street Journal.

He stood to congratulate award winners, including a Wall Street Journal team recognised for its reporting on Trump’s links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Opening his speech on a lighter note, Trump joked that “the second time is always better" and quipped that he respected “most" members of the media. He also joked about seeking another term in office, saying, “I’m only kidding," after suggesting a third term before later putting on a “Trump 2028" hat and joking that he intended to run for a fourth term. Under the 22nd Amendment to the US Constitution, presidents are limited to two elected terms. ‘We Settle Differences With Debate, Not Bullets’ Despite repeatedly criticising the media, Trump also used his address to stress the importance of free speech and peaceful public debate following the April shooting. “We settle our differences not with bullets, but with open and vigorous debate," the president said, adding that no act of violence should silence public discourse. Trump also paid tribute to US Secret Service officer Victor Gonzalez, who was honoured for his actions during the April shooting after confronting the gunman. “As I said three months ago, the show must go on," Trump remarked while reflecting on the incident.