Stephen A. Smith calls out heated political rhetoric after WHCD security scare
ESPN host Stephen A. Smith described the panic he experienced during a security scare at the 2026 White House Correspondents' Dinner when gunfire erupted outside the venue. He condemned the spread of conspiracy theories following the incident and emphasized the need for responsible journalism. Smith also expressed support for holding future events on White House grounds for better security.
- ▪A gunman opened fire outside the Washington Hilton during the 2026 White House Correspondents' Dinner but was stopped before entering the ballroom.
- ▪Stephen A. Smith recounted how attendees, including himself, took cover under tables amid confusion and fear of an active shooter.
- ▪The suspect, identified as Cole Thomas Allen, was apprehended by law enforcement and linked to anti-Trump and anti-Christian motives.
- ▪Smith rejected online conspiracy theories suggesting the incident was staged, calling it irresponsible for journalists to promote such claims.
- ▪He agreed with President Trump that future dinners should be held on White House grounds to enhance security.
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OutKick Stephen A. Smith calls out heated political rhetoric after WHCD security scare Smith said he agreed with the president that the event should be held on White House grounds, not a hotel By Alejandro Avila OutKick Published April 27, 2026 9:02pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google Journalist Stephen A. Smith attends ESPN First Take at Clark Atlanta University and Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., on Nov. 8, 2024. (Paras Griffin/Getty Images) Stephen A. Smith expected a routine night at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. The black tie event was anything but, as it turned into a moment of real fear.
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