Hasan Minhaj of The Daily Show headlining White House Correspondents Dinner

We already know that neither President Donald Trump nor anyone within his cabinet is going to the White House Correspondents Dinner when it is being held on April 29. However, we do know today that it will be known other than Hasan Minhaj presiding over the event from Washington DC, proving further that we are going to get a talented comedic presence nonetheless.

This news was confirmed earlier today on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, where Jeff Mason of the WHCA discussed the goal this year to focus and really celebrate quality journalism. It is no surprise that we would get a tonal shift given the current sentiment towards reporting in the country, especially that rhetoric started by the Trump Administration. This is an art form that is tough, arduous, and where quality journalism is often minimized or proclaimed to be “fake news.” The reason that this event became the lighthearted “nerd prom” is because no one doubted the legitimacy of the majority of the free press. While there may be slanted publications out there, many of the major ones still held an interest in truth.

With journalism under attack, we’re likely going back to basics … with a little bit of humor thrown in there.

Minhaj is best known for his work as a correspondent on The Daily Show, and we do also appreciate the decision by the WHCA to bring in someone from a Muslim background to the event. Like with journalism, the Muslim community has also been under attack; it’s important to highlight positive representations, and also demonstrate that the majority of Muslims are just like every other American — and they’re just as capable of killing it in this uncomfortable comedic setting. We often give any comic credit for opting to take on this event, given that it’s a very difficult place to get a laugh given that you have so many alternating views in the same room. With the conservative White House not attending, though, it’s possible that Minhaj could have a fairly favorable crowd present there.

This news also comes while fellow Daily Show alum Samantha Bee is planning an alternative WHCA celebration, one that was set up to mock Trump in her own way with the proceeds going to support journalists.

For those looking for a prime example of some of Minhaj’s work, may we direct you to the video below? The piece that he did with Justin Trudeau about Syrian refugees is still timely, and it’s also pretty hilarious.

Do you think that Hasan Minhaj’s work is perfect for the White House Correspondents Dinner? Be sure to share in the comments! (Photo: Comedy Central.)