Obama says motive unclear despite manifesto outlining alleged targets in WHCD shooting
Former President Barack Obama said the motive behind the shooting outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner remains unclear, even as investigators review writings from the suspect outlining plans to target...
By Fox News · Fox News
Former President Barack Obama said the motive behind the shooting outside the White House Correspondents’ Dinner remains unclear, even as investigators review writings from the suspect outlining plans to target President Donald Trump and members of his administration. Obama’s statement on X focused first on the lack of confirmed details about what drove the attack before condemning violence more broadly and praising the Secret Service. "Although we don’t yet have the details about the motives behind last night's shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner , it’s incumbent upon all us to reject the idea that violence has any place in our democracy," Obama wrote on X. "It’s also a sobering reminder of the courage and sacrifice that U.S. Secret Service Agents show every day. "I’m grateful to them – and thankful that the agent who was shot is going to be okay," he added. BONGINO QUESTIONS SECURITY PERIMETER AT WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS' DINNER: 'COMPRESSED TOO FAR' Fox News Digital has reached out to Obama’s team for clarification on his comments. Authorities have identified the suspect as 31-year-old Cole Allen of California , who allegedly opened fire at the Washington Hilton during the annual event attended by Trump and senior administration officials. Federal law enforcement officials confirmed to Fox News Digital that after Allen’s arrest, he said he intended to target Trump administration officials and had prepared a manifesto detailing his intent, while also sharing anti-Trump and anti-Christian rhetoric on social media. 'ABSOLUTE BARE MINIMUM': CALLS FOR MORE ACTION AFTER SECRET SERVICE AGENTS SUSPENDED FOR SECURITY FAILURE The writings identified administration officials as potential targets and expressed grievances tied to the Trump administration, with investigators examining those statements as part of what may have driven the attack. Law enforcement officials have not formally confirmed a definitive motive as the investigation remains ongoing. Durin…