Things got fiery on LBC Radio when host Iain Dale spectacularly cut off Donald Trump supporter Kurt Schlichter after he blamed a tragic US plane crash on diversity efforts.
Schlichter appeared on the show shortly after Trump suggested that a diversity drive at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was partly to blame for the mid-air collision in Washington, DC that killed 67 people. But his attempt to defend the president’s controversial remarks was short-lived, with Dale pulling the plug in dramatic fashion.
Trump points the finger at diversity
The crash, involving an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter, occurred on Wednesday night, sparking widespread speculation about its cause. While investigations are ongoing, Trump wasted no time in linking the disaster to a diversity initiative implemented under former president Joe Biden.
Speaking at the White House, Trump claimed the FAA was “actively recruiting workers with severe intellectual disabilities, psychiatric problems, and other conditions” under its diversity programme.
“We do not know what led to this crash,” Trump said, “but we have some very strong opinions and ideas.”
Dale vs Schlichter: A short-lived debate
Schlichter, an American journalist and staunch Trump supporter, joined Dale on LBC to defend the president’s remarks. But things went downhill fast, with Schlichter’s comments spiralling into a full-on rant.
Dale quickly decided enough was enough, cutting him off mid-conversation.
The clash didn’t end there. Schlichter and Dale took their spat to social media, where Dale explained his decision to shut the conversation down.
“I don’t like bigots on my show”
Taking to X, Dale didn’t hold back:
“You got booted off because you were shouting, obnoxious, rude, offensive, and I don’t like bigots on my show,” he wrote.
Dale also made it clear that he’s happy to have Trump supporters on the programme—just not ones who cross the line.
“Very happy to have Trump-supporting guests on my show, but you sir bring shame on your proud country,” he added.
Why the controversy matters
Trump’s comments have drawn widespread criticism from those who argue that blaming diversity for a tragic accident is a dangerous distraction. While aviation experts await the official findings, many—including Dale—are calling out what they see as an attempt to politicise a tragedy.
It seems clear that this conversation isn’t over, but for now, Dale’s mic drop moment has left its mark.
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