Cole Allen, the man accused of opening fire near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, told investigators he was affiliated with a progressive group known as “The Wide Awakes,” a loosely connected collective that draws inspiration from a much older political movement.
The original Wide Awakes date back to the 1860 presidential election, when groups of anti-slavery activists rallied in support of Abraham Lincoln. They were known for their dramatic public displays—marches, uniforms, and torchlit parades that brought energy and visibility to their cause in cities across the North. While they were politically active, their tactics were rooted in organized demonstrations rather than violence.
The modern version of the group is more abstract. It was started in 2020 by artists who borrowed the name and some of the visual flair of the original movement. Today, it functions less like a formal organization and more like an open network. There’s no clear leadership structure, and participation appears to be fluid. People can organize events, create art, or take part in demonstrations under the group’s banner without any centralized oversight.
The group’s messaging leans heavily on creativity and nonviolence. Its website describes a vision built around artistic expression, diversity, and community engagement. It encourages people to host gatherings, collaborate with local performers, and use visual storytelling as a way to engage with political and social issues. The language is broad and aspirational, focused more on inspiration than concrete policy goals.
That makes Allen’s claimed connection difficult to pin down. Officials say he identified himself as a member, but it’s not clear what that meant in practice or whether he had any direct involvement with others in the group. There’s also no indication the organization itself had any role in the incident.
Investigators have painted a picture of someone who had become increasingly extreme in his views. According to family members, Allen had been making more radical statements in recent months and spoke about wanting to take action to address what he saw as major problems in the country. He was also active online, posting frequently about politics and expressing strong opposition to President Trump and his allies.
Authorities say Allen sent a lengthy manifesto to family members shortly before the shooting, outlining his intentions. Earlier reports also noted that he had attended anti-Trump demonstrations, though it’s unclear whether he did so as part of any organized group or simply on his own.
The shooting itself unfolded quickly. Allen allegedly attempted to push through a Secret Service checkpoint at the Washington Hilton while armed. He was stopped before reaching the ballroom, where high-profile officials were gathered. Gunfire erupted in the hallway, prompting a chaotic evacuation of the event. He was subdued by agents at the scene.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about how Allen became radicalized and whether anyone else had insight into his plans beforehand.
