It's in his spirit, to ignore the press and decide which media he will give free access to fill out their given rights by 1st Amendment. He sure is respecting the Amendments, isn't he? Funny, one of biggest concern about HCR was if she'd be a threat against the Amendments. Tsk tsk.
At this point, it's probably a smart move for him not to attend. He's never been one for jokes at his expense and considering what he has done (press ban) it won't be a pleasant & jovial time for anyone.
Unless someone is looking for legal clarification, the bulk of political questions are speculation based. This question was a natural response to a current event. It was thoughtful & intelligent, not derogatory, abusive, or set up to be rhetorical as most are from at least one specific source here.
Trump doesn't have to be specific. Considering he has been extremely vocal about his disdain for the media & his decision was made on the heels of the ban, we all know why he isn't going. Frankly, I don't blame him for not wanting to attend. I've always felt the Correspondence Dinner was a waste of time and money. I am not a fan of roasting Presidents. It debases the office IMO.
Thriftymaid 