President Donald Trump on Thursday addressed the crash of an American Airlines passenger jet, saying he believed that former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and diversity initiatives that took place during his tenure were partly to blame.
“We do not know what led to this crash, but we have some very strong opinions and ideas, and I think we’ll probably state those opinions now, because over the years I’ve watched as things like this happen and they say, well, we’re always investigating. And then the investigation, three years later, they announce it,” Trump said at Thursday’s press conference.
He then proceeded to speculate on some possible causes. “The FAA is actively recruiting workers who suffer severe intellectual disabilities, psychiatric problems, and other mental and physical conditions under a diversity and inclusion hiring initiative spelled out on the agency’s website,” Trump said.
He also called Buttigieg a “disaster,” adding, “You know how badly everything’s run since he’s run the Department of Transportation? … He’s just got a good line of bulls**t.”
Reporters in the room immediately objected to Trump’s assertion that diversity initiatives in the federal government’s hiring processes could have played a role. “I’m trying to figure out how you can come to the conclusion right now that diversity had something to do with this crash,” one reporter asked.
“Because I have common sense, OK?” Trump responded. “Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t.”
Trump also called on ABC News’ White House correspondent, Mary Bruce, who took the opportunity to bring the issue up once again. “Are you saying this crash was somehow caused and the result of diversity hiring? What evidence have you seen to support these claims?” Bruce asked.
Trump replied, “It just could have been. We have a high standard, a much higher standard than anybody else. There are things where you just have to go by brain power. You have to go by psychological quality.
The crash occurred on Wednesday evening when an Army PAT-25 helicopter collided with an American Eagle flight as it approached the runway at Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) in Washington, D.C. Authorities have confirmed at least 67 fatalities.
You can watch the footage of Trump’s exchanges with reporters above.
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