Trump says White House dinner attacker had ‘a lot of hatred in his heart’

US President Donald Trump said Sunday that the suspect who attempted to attack the White House Correspondents’ Dinner was consumed by hatred, particularly anti-Christian ideology. Speaking to Fox News, Trump said the attacker’s manifesto revealed a person driven by religious animosity. “He had a lot of hatred in his heart for quite a while,” Trump said, describing the motive as “strongly anti-Christian.” He noted that the suspect’s family was aware of his difficulties and suggested they “probably” should have reported him “a little bit more strongly.” Trump added: “I hated a guy like this, sick, bad person. I hated somebody like that, changing the course of our country.”

Secret Service response and secure ballroom plans

Trump praised the Secret Service for stopping the attacker, who “came in running like he was an NFL running back” before reaching the doors. The suspect, identified as Cole Allen, was apprehended at the Washington Hilton Hotel on Saturday. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said Allen was “feet away from breaking the perimeter” when stopped. Investigators found written materials at the hotel stating his intent to target Trump administration officials, along with anti-Trump and anti-Christian rhetoric on his social media accounts. Trump reiterated plans for a new secure ballroom on White House grounds, featuring bulletproof glass nearly four inches thick with drone-proofing capabilities, situated on “the most secure ground, probably in the world.”