The vice president and transportation secretary claimed that diversity hiring efforts had affected staffing levels among air traffic controller, but there is no evidence that such efforts played a role in the crash.

He told a news conference that diversity hiring efforts at the Federal Aviation Administration may have led to safety issues.

Vice President JD Vance defended President Trump's contention that the tragic plane collision in Washington, D.C., was connected to diversity, equity and inclusion hiring practices within the Federal Aviation Administration.