Political activist Riley Gaines responded on April 25, 2026, to an assassination attempt targeting President Donald Trumpduring the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, issuing a series of posts on X condemning political violence and expressing alarm over the incident.
The shooting occurred Saturday night when a gunman opened fire near a security checkpoint at the event, prompting Secret Service agents to evacuate Trump and first lady Melania Trump. Officials said the suspect fired at security personnel and was apprehended at the scene. Trump later stated that an agent struck during the incident was protected by a bulletproof vest and remained in good condition.
Gaines reacted by referencing prior threats against Trump, writing, “The multiple assassination attempts haven’t been enough? What the heck is wrong with our world? So dark.” Her comments pointed to what she described as a pattern of escalating danger.
In a follow-up post, she added, “It’s maddening. It’s insane. It’s heartbreaking. This bloodlust has to STOP. The incitement to violence is a national emergency.” She then issued a more direct message: “Stop. Trying. To. Kill. Our. President.”
Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer turned conservative activist, has been a vocal supporter of Trump and frequently comments on political issues. Her statements followed the disruption of the high-profile Washington event and added to broader reactions in the aftermath of the shooting.