President Trump said Thursday House Majority Whip Steve Scalise’s condition is worse that initially believed after this week’s shooting but said he’s hopeful the Republican will recover.
“It’s been much more difficult than people even thought at the time,” Trump said at the White House. “He’s in some trouble. But he’s a great fighter and he’s going to be OK, we hope.”
Trump recounted his visit to see Scalise and his family in the hospital on Wednesday night. Scalise and three others were shot during a congressional baseball game practice Wednesday morning.
“I reassured them that the entire country is pulling for them, praying for them, and that we are here for them every single step of the way,” Trump said. “America’s hearts, and we mean this in the truest sense, sends its love. There are a lot of parts in this country, great hearts and they’re all sending their love and support to the speech anyone family. And Steve, in his own way, may have brought some unity to our long-divided country.”
In a statement on Wednesday night, MedStar Washington Hospital Center said Scalise sustained a single rifle shot to the left hip and is in critical condition. “The bullet travelled across his pelvis, fracturing bones, injuring internal organs, and causing severe bleeding.”
“He was transported in shock to MedStar Washington Hospital Center, a Level I Trauma Center,” the hospital said. “He underwent immediate surgery, and an additional procedure to stop bleeding. He has received multiple units of blood transfusion. His condition is critical, and he will require additional operations.”
Trump also said Thursday he also visited with Crystal Griner, one of the Capitol Police officers who was wounded in the attack.
“Terrific young woman … Crystal is one of the two Capitol Police officers who saved so many lives through her heroism along with special agent David Bailey,” he said. “They ran right into the fire. They ran right into those guns and the bullets and they saved a lot of lives. America salutes both of their courage.”
Trump also sent “heartfelt prayers” to Matt Mika, a lobbyist who was badly wounded in the assault.
“To Matt’s family, anything you need, we are here for you,” Trump said. “Hopefully, Matt will be OK.”
Zack Barth, a staffer for Texas Rep. Roger Williams, was shot in the leg but released from the hospital Wednesday.
