The White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) has reversed its decision to feature comedian Amber Ruffin at the 2025 dinner after backlash from the Trump administration. WHCA president Eugene Daniels announced on Saturday that no comedian would perform this year, focusing instead on honoring journalistic excellence.
This year’s @whca dinner will be hosted by a 2nd rate comedian who is previewing the event by calling this administration “murderers” who want to “feel like human beings, but they shouldn’t get to feel that way, because you’re not”
— Taylor Budowich (@Taylor47) March 29, 2025
What kind of responsible, sensible journalist… pic.twitter.com/tZCJS9fNOT
The change comes after Trump’s deputy chief of staff, Taylor Budowich, criticized Ruffin’s previous remarks, calling the comedian's past comments about the administration “hate-filled” and “violence-inspiring.” Ruffin had been initially invited to host the event, but her inclusion sparked controversy due to her outspoken criticism of Trump. Daniels emphasized that the event on April 26 would concentrate on celebrating the work of journalists and supporting future media professionals.
