WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Indian American Democratic lawmakers strongly condemned a shooting incident that disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner on April 25, forcing the evacuation of Donald Trump and several senior officials. Authorities reported multiple gunshots near the venue, triggering panic during the high-profile annual event that celebrates the First Amendment and the role of the press. Security agencies quickly secured the area, and officials later confirmed that the situation was under control.
Several Indian American members of Congress voiced concern and relief following the incident. Suhas Subramanyam, who attended the dinner, described the tense moments as the situation unfolded.
“I was walking down the escalators from the lobby when, at the bottom, security personnel with guns were running and yelling ‘watch out for crossfire,’” Subramanyam said. He added that he took cover behind a pillar before exiting through a back door as police responded. Subramanyam praised the rapid response from agencies, including the United States Secret Service, United States Capitol Police, and the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia.
Ami Bera expressed gratitude for the swift actions of law enforcement and relief that attendees remained safe.
“Tonight was about celebrating the First Amendment and our free press,” Bera said. “We can never allow violence or intimidation to threaten that freedom.”
Similarly, Pramila Jayapal highlighted the importance of quick security measures. She said she was grateful to law enforcement for securing the room and protecting lives. Jayapal added that violence should never be seen as a solution. Shri Thanedar also condemned the attack. He thanked security agencies for their fast response and said he was keeping all attendees in his thoughts.
The incident renewed concerns about political violence in the United States. Ro Khanna called for stronger bipartisan efforts to address the issue. Khanna urged lawmakers to establish a national commission on political violence. He said such violence has no place in the country and stressed the need for collective action. Khanna also expressed concern for a Secret Service agent who was injured during the incident.
Raja Krishnamoorthi echoed similar sentiments. He said violence must not be part of a democratic society and praised the courage shown by security personnel. Krishnamoorthi also expressed relief that the injured agent is expected to recover.
Trump later addressed the incident on social media. He confirmed that authorities had contained the situation and credited security agencies for their quick and effective response. Officials evacuated him and other attendees as a precaution. Trump also announced that organizers would reschedule the WHCA dinner within the next 30 days. The annual event draws journalists, lawmakers, and celebrities, making it one of Washington’s most prominent gatherings.
The shooting has raised fresh questions about security at major public and political events. While authorities prevented further harm, the incident highlighted ongoing risks linked to political gatherings. Lawmakers across the political spectrum have repeatedly warned about rising threats of political violence.
