The annual White House Correspondents' Association Dinner took place on Saturday evening, boasting a star-studded guest list that included President Joe Biden and comedian Roy Wood Jr. The event has evolved into a lavish affair over the past decade, commencing with multiple exclusive invite-only parties. On Friday alone, at least eight significant events were hosted by various groups such as news outlets and talent agencies.
This year's dinner was just one of many coveted invitations for DC elites to secure. First Lady Jill Biden and her daughter Ashley mingled with Democratic legislators like Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Rep. Ilhan Omar at the Elle Women of Impact event; Gayle King attended Google's Politics & Inclusion dinner; while recently ousted CNN anchor Don Lemon conversed with former colleagues and other A-listers at the United Talent Agency bash in Georgetown.
Despite climate change protesters attempting to disrupt Saturday's main event by blocking traffic outside the Kalorama-based Washington Hilton, festivities carried on uninterrupted inside.
President Joe Biden addressed attendees gathered to support freedom of press during his speech at the White House Correspondents Dinner on Saturday night. He also highlighted wrongful detentions of American journalists Evan Gershkovich in Russia and Austin Tice in Syria.
In addition, President Biden held private meetings during the event: he met Brittney Griner – along with her wife – who currently faces drug charges in Russia; he also convened privately with relatives of an unnamed Wall Street Journal reporter whom the US State Department considers "wrongfully detained" in Russia.
Comedian Roy Wood Jr., known for his wit and incisive humor, did not disappoint when roasting Washington politics during his performance that evening. He joked about being offered $10 if he kept his remarks under 10 minutes long - an indication of how lighthearted the event can be.
President Biden himself poked fun at Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a potential frontrunner for the GOP presidential nomination if he enters the 2024 race.
Overall, this year's White House Correspondents' Association Dinner showcased an array of political figures and celebrities alike, highlighting key issues such as freedom of press and wrongful detentions while allowing attendees to indulge in some lighthearted entertainment.