Schumer faces backlash for blaming Trump after Mexican Navy ship crashes into Brooklyn Bridge

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faced backlash on social media over the weekend after suggesting that President Donald Trump was partially to blame for a Mexican Navy ship losing control and crashing into the Brooklyn Bridge. The incident, which resulted in the death of two cadets on the ship, raised questions about the safety of critical transportation arteries like bridges.

In a press release, Schumer expressed concerns about the accident and raised questions about how it occurred. He highlighted the importance of bridges for commerce, emergency response, and daily travel, emphasizing the need to maintain their structural integrity and safety. Schumer also criticized the Trump administration for potentially jeopardizing national and economic security, as well as American lives.

Schumer pointed to a hiring freeze at the Coast Guard implemented by the Trump administration, suggesting that it could have impacted the Coast Guard’s ability to monitor and secure key waterways. He raised concerns about the Coast Guard’s Vessel Traffic System, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe navigation of vessels in high-traffic areas.

However, Schumer’s claims were quickly refuted by the Department of Homeland Security, which stated that the hiring freeze did not affect the U.S. Coast Guard and that the incident had nothing to do with Vessel Traffic Services. Conservatives on social media criticized Schumer for blaming the Trump administration for the Mexican Navy ship crash, with some calling him “stupid” and “evil.”

Despite the backlash, Schumer’s office did not provide a comment on the matter. The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that its New York Vessel Traffic Service was fully operational during the incident and followed established procedures to manage commercial traffic and ensure safe navigation.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the safety and security of critical infrastructure like bridges. It also highlights the need for accurate information and responsible leadership in addressing such incidents. Schumer’s remarks sparked a debate on social media, with critics accusing him of politicizing a tragic event and spreading misinformation.