Trump Speculates on DEI’s Role in D.C. Air Crash Amid Grief and Political Blame

Former President Donald Trump seized on a deadly mid-air collision over the Potomac River to cast blame on federal diversity initiatives Thursday, even as investigators worked to determine the cause of the crash that killed 67 people, including three U.S. soldiers.

The collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a military helicopter occurred Wednesday evening during a training mission, sending debris plunging into the Potomac near Arlington, Virginia. While authorities have yet to identify the cause, Trump suggested without evidence that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs under the Biden administration—specifically at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)—may have played a role.

‘Life Is Fragile’: A Narrow Escape

Arlington resident Kaylyn Thompson recounted the shock of learning her friend narrowly avoided the doomed flight after a delayed meeting. “She’s so shaken up,” Thompson told [Outlet Name] from her apartment rooftop overlooking the crash site. “It lets you know life is so fragile. One impediment in your day—if you’re redirected, if you’re late—it’s probably for a reason.”

Thompson described seeing emergency responders swarm the river after her brother alerted her to the disaster. “In an area with constant air traffic, how does this happen? Today’s a heavy, heavy day,” she said.

Trump’s DEI Claims Draw Scrutiny

At a combative White House press conference, Trump repeatedly cited an FAA diversity hiring program—archived online since December—that recruited individuals with disabilities, including “severe intellectual disability” and “partial paralysis.” While the program applied broadly to FAA roles, Trump implied it compromised air traffic control standards.

“It just could have been [a factor],” Trump said, adding he had “common sense” to link DEI to the crash despite no evidence. Critics noted the FAA has long faced staffing shortages unrelated to diversity efforts.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the helicopter pilots were experienced, though Trump speculated the aircraft made a “turn that was not correct.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth identified the fallen soldiers as a captain, staff sergeant, and chief warrant officer.

Political Divisions Eclipse Mourning

Trump’s remarks swiftly shifted from condolence to criticism of Biden and Obama-era policies, reigniting debates over his penchant for politicizing tragedies. “It’s never too soon to attack opponents,” said one political analyst, noting Trump’s history of leveraging crises for agenda-setting.

The FAA, in a 2023 statement to Fox News, defended its hiring: “All candidates must meet rigorous qualifications.” Meanwhile, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation, with updates expected in coming weeks.

International Victims, Safety Concerns

Trump confirmed Russian nationals were aboard the flight, with other nationalities to be disclosed later. When pressed on aviation safety, he assured the public, “It’s safe to fly,” despite earlier questioning of air traffic control alerts.