The White House sharply rebuked MS NOW correspondent Ken Dilanian after he reacted on-air to the shooting of two National Guard members near the White House by questioning whether Americans would object to uniformed troops in city streets. The administration called his remarks “beyond sick,” arguing they disrespected service members who were critically wounded in what authorities say was a targeted attack.
The shooting occurred early Tuesday morning near the Farragut West Metro station, just blocks from the White House. The two guardsmen, both from West Virginia, were on duty when a gunman opened fire. Officials confirmed the suspect was detained a short time later. The attack immediately sparked widespread concern and prompted lawmakers to demand answers about federal security operations around the nation’s capital.
Dilanian’s comments aired as news of the guardsmen’s conditions was still unfolding. Viewers watched him suggest that some Americans might be uneasy about a stronger National Guard presence in Washington. Within minutes, the White House issued a public statement condemning the segment, emphasizing that the guardsmen were carrying out lawful duties assigned under President Trump’s administration. Officials called for “basic human decency” toward wounded service members.
Conservatives blasted the segment as a disturbing example of media hostility toward the military. Commentators pointed out that the correspondent raised political questions before acknowledging the gravity of the attack. Supporters of the administration said the immediate response from the White House highlighted its commitment to defending the military against unfair media narratives.
Authorities have not released updates on the victims’ conditions but confirmed both remain hospitalized. The investigation into the shooter’s motive continues, and officials have not ruled out terrorism-related factors.
