Adedokun Waliyu 
A California man accused of attempting to assassinate United States President Donald Trump during a White House press gala last month has pleaded not guilty to multiple federal charges.
The suspect, Cole Allen, entered the plea on Monday during an appearance before a federal district court in Washington, DC.
According to US media reports, the 31-year-old appeared in court wearing an orange prison jumpsuit and handcuffs as proceedings commenced.
Allen faces four major charges linked to the April 25 attack at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner held at a downtown Washington hotel. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.
Federal prosecutors charged Allen with attempting to assassinate the president, transporting firearms and ammunition across state lines with intent to commit a felony, using a firearm during a violent crime, and assaulting a federal officer.
Investigators alleged that Allen, described as a highly educated teacher and engineer, travelled by train from California to Washington carrying multiple weapons, including a shotgun, handgun, and several knives.
Authorities said the suspect never got close to President Trump or other guests attending the gala event. Secret Service agents reportedly evacuated the president immediately after gunshots were heard inside the venue.
Law enforcement officers quickly subdued and arrested Allen after he allegedly rushed through a security checkpoint carrying weapons. During the confrontation, a Secret Service officer fired multiple shots at the suspect but did not hit him.
The annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner traditionally attracts journalists, government officials, celebrities, and entertainers from across the United States.
Although President Trump had previously boycotted the event during earlier years, he reportedly chose to attend this year’s gathering.
The incident marked the third alleged assassination attempt against Trump within less than two years.
In 2024, Trump survived an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, where a gunman opened fire, killing one audience member and injuring the president in the ear.
Months later, another armed suspect was arrested near a golf course in West Palm Beach where Trump was playing golf.
The latest case has intensified concerns surrounding presidential security and political violence in the United States.
