Former U.S. President Donald Trump has blamed the Biden and Obama administrations’ diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies for a devastating mid-air collision between an American Airlines jet and a military Black Hawk helicopter in Washington, D.C. The crash, which killed all 67 people on board, is currently under investigation.
The tragic incident occurred near Reagan National Airport, where a staffing shortage in the control tower may have played a role, according to reports from The New York Times. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that only one air traffic controller was on duty instead of the usual two when the crash happened.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has recovered the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder (black box) from the crash site and sent them for further analysis. Rescue efforts have been hampered by darkness and freezing conditions, with at least 30 bodies recovered so far.
Following the disaster, Trump held a press conference where he harshly criticized DEI policies, arguing that they prioritize diversity over merit in hiring. He claimed that the policy prevents qualified professionals from taking critical positions in aviation and other sectors. “They had a directive—‘too many white people’—but we need the most qualified people,” Trump stated.
His remarks were echoed by his vice-presidential running mate, J.D. Vance, and newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who argued that DEI policies undermine America’s workforce by sidelining competent individuals. Trump also took aim at Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, referencing his support for diversity initiatives.
When pressed by reporters on whether DEI policies directly caused the crash, Trump responded, “It could be.”
Liberty News’ international correspondent reports that authorities are continuing their investigation into the collision, focusing on factors such as air traffic control management, pilot communication, and aircraft positioning before the crash.
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