The White House Correspondents' Dinner (WHCD) often constitutes one of the capital's most talked about events, typically because of the jokes its presenters share and the star-studded guest list. As a result, many are likely speculating as to who is attending, including whether Bernie Sanders is at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. While the senator attended the dinner last year, it is still uncertain whether he will be at this year's event.
As many know, the dinner is an annual event hosted by the White House Correspondents' Association, which represents journalists who cover the White House and the president. The dinner is meant to be an opportunity to socialize, as well as to honor journalists and their work. It is particularly known for its humor; traditionally, both comedians and sitting presidents deliver jokes about Washington, D.C., politicians, and other similar topics.
The White House Correspondents' Dinner is usually attended by the president and the first lady, though Donald Trump will not attend this year's dinner. It is also typically attended by a spate of celebrity guests as well as various elected officials, including members of Congress. All guests are traditionally invited by news outlets, which hold a few dozen or so tickets apiece and choose whom they would like to invite to the event.
Last year, Sen. Sanders was one of the individuals invited to attend the WHCD by CBS News, which he did along with his wife, Jane. Sanders attracted a good deal of attention at the event both because he was, at the time, the only presidential candidate to attend the dinner and because he chose not to wear a tuxedo to the traditionally black-tie event. As a leading presidential contender for the 2016 election, Sanders was also the butt of several of President Obama's lighthearted jokes throughout the course of the evening.
While Sanders certainly made his mark at last year's WHCD, it is uncertain whether or not the senator will attend this year's dinner. Scoring an invitation to the exclusive event is actually quite difficult, as seats are limited and all tickets are held by news organizations. Thus, a news outlet would have to invite Sanders to attend this year's dinner, just as one did last year.
While it's not apparent whether Sanders will be at the dinner, his presence would likely certainly be a welcome addition. Sanders was a "social media favorite" at the 2016 dinner and the public will likely be just as enamored if he attends this year's event.
