Donald Trump says he has no plans to start wearing a bulletproof vest, despite facing multiple assassination attempts. He’s now sharing the reasoning behind that decision.

On April 25, 2026, during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, man opened fire, prompting security to quickly escort Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump out of the room. The suspect has since been charged with one count of attempting to assassinate the President of the United States, along with two counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence and a second crime of assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon.

Speaking shortly after the incident, Trump confirmed that a Secret Service agent had been injured in the shooting, but credited the agent’s protective gear.

“One officer was shot but saved by the fact that he was wearing, obviously, a very good, bulletproof vest,” said Trump, according to Tyla. “He was shot from a very close distance with a very powerful gun.”

Trump added that the agent is recovering well.

“The vest did the job… He’s doing great,” Trump said. “He’s in great shape, he’s in very high spirits and we told him we love him and respect him. He’s a very proud guy, proud of what he does, a Secret Service agent.”

Donald Trump on wearing a bulletproof vest
The April incident marks the third known threat against Trump in less than two years. Given the series of incidents, questions have been raised about whether Trump would consider wearing additional protective gear – specifically a bulletproof vest.

During an Oval Office signing ceremony on April 30, a White House correspondent for NewsNation asked Trump directly whether there had been any discussions about him “potentially wearing a bullet-proof vest moving forward.”

Trump responded with a joke: “I don’t know if I can handle looking 20 pounds heavier.”

The remark drew laughter from people in the room.

“If you want to gain 20 to 25 pounds, get a vest,” he added.

Despite acknowledging that a bulletproof vest helped save a Secret Service agent’s life, Trump made it clear he has no intention of adopting one himself.