Trump Jokes About Bulletproof Vest, Cites Appearance Concerns

President Donald Trump joked on Thursday that he would look “20 pounds heavier” if he were to wear a bulletproof vest, amid renewed scrutiny of his personal security following a recent incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. The comments came during an Oval Office news conference, as reported by USA Today and TNND.

When asked whether he had considered wearing protective body armor, Trump responded, “I don’t know if I can handle looking 20 pounds heavier,” according to reports. He added, “If you want to gain 20 to 25 pounds, get a vest — and live.”

The discussion about increased security measures resurfaced after Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, allegedly fired a shotgun in the direction of stairs leading to the ballroom area at the Hilton hotel during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on April 25. Prosecutors filed a court document on April 29 detailing the incident.

According to reports, a Secret Service agent was shot during the incident, but was protected by the vest he was wearing. Trump acknowledged the effectiveness of the vest, stating, “Frankly, the vest did an amazing job because it took a bullet close up,” and noting the agent “didn’t even want to go to the hospital.”

Here’s not the first time concerns about Trump’s safety have been raised. He has faced multiple assassination attempts, threats, and security scares dating back to his initial presidential campaign in 2016. During the 2024 presidential campaign, authorities investigated two separate incidents involving his safety, including one while golfing in West Palm Beach, Florida, and another during an attempted assassination in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Prior security incidents during his 2016 campaign included interventions by law enforcement in Nevada and Ohio, where armed or disruptive individuals approached campaign events, authorities reported at the time.

Fox News senior White House correspondent Peter Doocy reported on April 26 that a bulletproof vest was among several “major security improvements” being considered following the recent incident. However, Trump’s comments suggest he remains hesitant to adopt the additional protection, prioritizing his appearance.

Cole Tomas Allen is currently being held in jail pending trial related to the attempted assassination, according to CNBC. He faces multiple charges, including attempted assassination, and could face a life sentence if convicted.