Donald Trump forcefully denied accusations read from an alleged shooter's manifesto during a tense interview with CBS News anchor Norah O'Donnell, as federal investigators continue probing a shooting outside the Washington Hilton that authorities believe targeted senior administration officials.
The confrontation unfolded during a broadcast of 60 Minutes following the incident near the White House Correspondents' Dinner, where gunfire disrupted a high-profile gathering attended by the president, first lady, and members of the political and media establishment.
Law enforcement officials have identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California. He is accused of opening fire near the venue, injuring one officer who survived after being struck in a bulletproof vest. Authorities have indicated the attack may have been directed at top government officials, though details remain under investigation.
During the interview, O'Donnell cited passages from what was described as the suspect's writings, including a line referring to a "paedophile, rapist and traitor." While the excerpt did not name Trump directly, the surrounding context suggested the remarks were aimed at administration figures.
Trump responded sharply as the passage was read. "Yeah, he did write that. I'm not a rapist. I didn't rape anybody. I'm not a paedophile. Excuse me. Excuse me. I'm not a paedophile. You read that crap from some sick person? I got associated with all - stuff that has nothing to do with me. I was totally exonerated," he said.
The president also criticized the decision to include the material in the interview, telling O'Donnell: "I was waiting for you to read that because I knew you would because ... you're horrible people. Horrible people." He added, "You should be ashamed of yourself reading that because I'm not any of those things."
Investigators are still working to verify the authenticity and full context of the alleged manifesto, which has not been publicly released in full. Reports indicate that materials linked to Allen include anti-government rhetoric and references to targeting "administration officials: prioritised from highest-ranking to lowest," though authorities have not confirmed all excerpts circulating in media reports.
One passage attributed to the suspect states: "I am no longer willing to permit a paedophile, rapist and traitor to coat my hands with his crimes," a line that has been widely cited but remains unverified in full context by law enforcement.
The incident has heightened scrutiny of security protocols at major political gatherings, particularly events combining high-ranking officials and public access. The rapid evacuation of attendees and the survival of the injured officer have been cited by officials as evidence that existing protective measures functioned under pressure.
Trump also addressed the impact of the incident on Melania Trump, describing her reaction during the chaos. "Well, I don't wanna say, and people don't like having it said that they were scared. But certainly, I mean, who wouldn't be when you have a situation like that?" he said. He added, "She handled it great. I mean, she was, she's very strong, smart. She got it."
