President Biden Roasts Trump and Addresses Press Freedom at Correspondents’ Dinner

President Biden wasted no time getting straight to the heart of the matter during his speech at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday. Within minutes, he delved into the hot-button issues dominating the 2024 election, including his age and former President Donald J. Trump’s legal troubles.

In a roughly 10-minute speech, Mr. Biden quipped, “The 2024 election’s in full swing and yes, age is an issue. I’m a grown man running against a 6-year-old.” The President didn’t hold back, taking a jab at Mr. Trump’s recent legal woes, referencing the Stormy Daniels scandal and the hush-money trial in New York.

The comments were surprising given Mr. Biden’s previous stance of not allowing his aides to discuss Mr. Trump’s legal issues publicly. However, the President has recently ramped up his attacks on his predecessor, creating a clear divide between a campaigning president and a former president embroiled in legal battles.

The annual dinner at the Washington Hilton Hotel provided a glitzy break for journalists and government officials, with Mr. Biden extending his roast to the journalists in attendance. He humorously addressed criticism about not taking enough questions from the press, saying, “No comment.”

Outside the hotel, protests erupted over Mr. Biden’s support for Israel’s actions in Gaza, with pro-Palestinian demonstrators expressing their outrage. Inside the ballroom, journalists wore pins reading “Free Evan” in solidarity with Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who has been wrongfully detained in Russia.

The evening also saw NBC News reporter Kelly O’Donnell highlighting the dangers faced by journalists worldwide, including those who have been captured or killed while reporting. Comedian Colin Jost, the host of the event, light-heartedly poked fun at the President, but also expressed support for Mr. Biden.

As the night unfolded, politicians and celebrities mingled, with Mr. Biden continuing to take jabs at Mr. Trump and emphasizing the importance of the upcoming election. The President’s bold and humorous speech set the tone for the evening, showcasing his confidence and determination as he gears up for the 2024 election.