Donald Trump spoke to the White House press corps Thursday with some somber words appropriate for a time of national mourning in the aftermath of a recent air disaster. He acknowledged the tragedy, paying his respects to first responders and the victims. But he quickly turned feisty, heralding what will likely be a pugilistic presidency.
Trump suggested the cause may relate to reduced standards for air traffic controllers set by Biden and Obama, making those claims without evidence. He did so as part of a broader Republican critique of “diversity, equity and inclusion” programs in federal agencies, which they claim weaken the nation.
Just a day after the disaster, Trump joined other high-ranking administration officials, including the secretaries of transportation and defense, in renewing their broadsides against the DEI initiatives despite a lack of solid evidence linking such policies to the cause of the crash, which is still under investigation. Asked why he was jumping to conclusions, Trump responded, “Because I have common sense,” but added that investigations were continuing.
Other Republicans were more circumspect. Senator Thom Tillis said flatly that it was too early to make such assertions. For their part, disability rights groups such as the American Association of People with Disabilities had denounced Trump’s comments as “irresponsible” and hurtful, saying he should have stuck to discussing ways to prevent future tragedies instead of blaming Americans with disabilities.
Whatever the gravity, Trump was speculative about the conditions and technical reasons of the flight. Later on, the White House further tightened its stand when it signed a memorandum to axe diversity efforts in aviation hiring, review safety regulations made during Biden’s term in office. In sum, these comments prove that Trump did not waste the moment of tragedy for his gain.
