On January 30, President Donald Trump addressed reporters regarding the deadly American Airlines crash involving a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The crash occurred the evening of January 29, near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, killing 64 people on the plane and three soldiers on the helicopter.

Trump called the crash “a tragedy of terrible proportions” and expressed his belief that the government’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies and the mental health of employees played a role. Tensions rose when he clashed with reporters, including CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, who questioned his premature claims about the causes of the accident.

During the briefing, Trump criticized the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) diversity initiatives, stating that hiring people with intellectual and psychiatric disabilities could endanger air travel. He argued that air traffic controllers need “genius” level talent, questioning whether the current practices ensured safety.

NBC News’ Peter Alexander pushed back, pointing out that these policies were in place during Trump’s own presidency. Despite his claims, Trump maintained that he had tried to change the policy before Biden reversed it. The crash, which occurred during a Black Hawk helicopter’s proficiency flight, has left the nation mourning the loss of all passengers and crew.