During a press conference on Friday in Fletcher, North Carolina, President Donald Trump addressed Senator Adam Schiff’s (D-CA) decision to avoid traveling with him to assess disaster areas in North Carolina and California. The senator, who declined Trump’s invitation citing scheduling conflicts, was met with strong remarks from the president.
When asked about Schiff’s absence, Trump responded candidly: “I was told Schiff was going to travel with us to California. I wasn’t thrilled, to be honest with you. And I saw him last night on television; it looks like he got hit with a baseball bat or something.”
Trump’s remarks followed Schiff’s recent criticism of the president’s executive orders aimed at addressing California’s wildfire crisis, including measures to increase the state’s water supply. Schiff claimed these actions could exacerbate wildfires, despite widespread concerns about Democrat-led policies contributing to the state’s water management and disaster response challenges.
The senator’s video on X (formerly Twitter) drew attention not only for its content but for visible bruises on Schiff’s face, prompting speculation online. Critics on X highlighted the senator’s appearance over his comments, fueling further discourse.
Trump’s visit to North Carolina and California underscored his administration’s focus on disaster response and infrastructure improvements. The president observed hurricane damage in Asheville and toured areas impacted by historic wildfires in California, citing years of mismanagement by Democratic state and local leaders.
Schiff’s absence, coupled with his continued criticism of Trump, signals ongoing tension between the senator and the president. Trump, however, used the opportunity to emphasize his administration’s commitment to addressing America’s pressing infrastructure and disaster-related challenges.