Former President Donald Trump has announced he will not attend the upcoming White House Correspondents’ Dinner scheduled for April 26.

Throughout his first term, Trump consistently chose not to attend the annual event, often citing differences with the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA). During those years, Trump hosted alternative events highlighting media accuracy and transparency, aiming to offer a different perspective to the traditional dinner.

This latest decision reflects the ongoing differences between Trump and several media organizations. Earlier this year, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that the administration would manage pool reporting duties directly, selecting which journalists would cover certain official events and trips.

Tensions between the administration and the press have occasionally been highlighted by changes to event coverage, including adjustments to which outlets could participate in pool reporting.

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner, long known for blending journalism with lighthearted entertainment, has also faced its own internal shifts. Over the years, the event has featured entertainers who occasionally blurred the lines between comedy and commentary. Recently, a scheduled headliner was replaced after concerns were raised over the tone and content of planned remarks.

While some critics have suggested that the dinner has taken a more activist tone in recent years, many still view it as an important tradition celebrating the role of journalism in a democratic society.

Several officials from Trump’s team, including press secretary Karoline Leavitt, have also decided not to attend this year’s gathering. Speaking on a podcast last month, Leavitt reflected on the history of the event, noting that it was originally created to encourage greater interaction between the press and the presidency.