President Trump told House Minority Whip Steve Scalise he is “more handsome” after being shot in 2017.
The Louisiana Republican got a shoutout during a White House event Thursday as Trump lauded lawmakers who defended him during the Senate impeachment trial, which resulted in acquittal.
He brought up the aftermath of the shooting at a practice for the 2017 Congressional Baseball Game, where Scalise was seriously wounded, recounting a trip he took to the hospital with first lady Melania Trump to check on the congressman.
“She was inconsolable,” Trump said of Scalise’s wife, who stood by her husband’s side as he was in critical condition, before bringing up the congressman’s looks.
“Honestly, I think you’re better looking now. You’re more handsome now. You weren’t that good looking. You look good now. He looks better now. Can you believe it?” the president said, prompting applause for Scalise.
Trump later somberly stated, “Steve was really hit badly in the stomach. And with a bullet that rips you apart … It rips you apart.” Trump complimented the congressman’s perseverance, but jokingly ended the story by mocking Scalise’s ability to pitch a ball.
“Steve had no range,” Trump joked. “I don’t know who the hell put you on the field!”
Scalise, 54, made a triumphant return to the annual congressional charity baseball game in the summer of 2018, one year after being shot in the hip.
