CNN commentator Bakari Sellers recently issued an apology over a now-deleted social media post blaming President Donald Trump for the horrific plane crash in Washington, D.C., involving American Airlines 5342 and a military helicopter. In the wake of the tragedy, which left dozens dead with no known survivors, Sellers took to social media to write, “Eight days ago,” referring to President Trump’s recent election.
The controversial statement incited backlash from many on social media, criticizing Sellers for politicizing the tragedy. Some comments asserted that the victims should be shown respect instead of turning the crash into an opportunity to make accusations about political opponents. Others maintained that Trump and his policy decisions have had no connection to the crash.
One person on X said, “Americans are currently being fished out of the Potomac, and rather than have reverence for the victims, you chose to dishonestly (and despicably) blame.” Another person wrote, “The freeze has not affected any ATC command centers ANYWHERE after January 20th. There is no bottom low enough for @CNN,” another person said.
Following the pushback, Sellers deleted the post and apologized for his conduct. “I deleted the post because timing matters. Politics at this point does not. I f***ed up, I own that,” the commentator said. “I am very prayerful but I’m also very frustrated upset and disturbed with where we are as a country,” he continued. “The only thing that matters is rescuing the survivors, and ensuring this never happens again.”
President Trump weighed in on the disaster offering his thoughts and prayers. “I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God Bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise,” he said. Similarly, Vice President JD Vance wrote on X, “Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We’re monitoring the situation, but for now let’s hope for the best.”
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom also released a statement on behalf of the airline addressing the devastating crash. “Today is a devastating day for our American Airlines family. The heartbreaking accident of American Eagle Flight 5342 weighs heavily on our airline the industry and the world. The National Transportation Safety Board is now at the helm and is leading this investigation, and we’re grateful for their leadership,” he began in a video statement.
“They’ll provide details on the investigation going forward, but there are a few things I can share at this time last night, the military helicopter collided with American Eagle Flight 5342 upon its approach to Washington Reagan National Airport,” Isom added. “This flight was operated by PSA, one of our wholly owned carriers and was under the command of four Charlotte based crew members. There were 60 passengers on board, and we’re told that there were three military personnel on board the helicopter as well.” Listen to air traffic control audio of the crash below:
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The CEO continued, “We’re devastated. I know that everyone is hurting. I arrived in DC earlier today and have been in constant contact with our team, government officials and first responders, and want to thank everyone who’s given their time and compassion to supporting these efforts. Right now, the entire strength of the airline is focused on taking care of the families and loved ones for those who are on this flight, America has activated our care team.”
Featured image credit: Luke Harold, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bakari_Sellers_at_Politicon_2018.jpg