The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore experienced a catastrophic failure early Tuesday when a 948-foot-long container ship struck it. The incident, captured in dramatic video footage that has since gone viral, has initiated search-and-rescue operations. Baltimore’s Democratic Mayor, Brandon Scott, addressed the calamity at a news conference, stating, “This is an unthinkable tragedy. Our thoughts must first go to everyone affected, their families, and we must also express our gratitude to the first responders for their efforts.”
In the wake of the disaster, some right-wing figures have shifted their focus towards criticizing the Biden administration and propagating conspiracy theories, a trend that seems to follow nearly every significant tragedy in America today.
During an interview on Fox Business with Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Maria Bartiromo questioned the challenges Republicans face in securing the border, suggesting a potential link to the bridge’s collapse. “The president has stated he won’t take any executive action,” she remarked, highlighting the ongoing political debate.
Matt Schlapp, Chairman of the American Conservative Union, discussed on Newsmax the lingering effects of COVID-19 lockdowns and the challenges employers face in hiring non-drug-impaired workers. He admitted his lack of expertise in maritime affairs but speculated on the potential influence of drug use on the incident.
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) hinted at the possibility that Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act could be at fault. Meanwhile, Jack Posobiec, a known conspiracy theorist, and several right-wing social media accounts pointed fingers at Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, calling for his resignation. Others blamed the administration’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Conspiracy theories have abounded, with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) questioning whether the event was an intentional attack or an accident. Andrew Tate, a recently arrested right-wing influencer, suggested a cyber-attack directed the ship towards the bridge, a theory echoed by Sandy Hook conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, who deemed a cyber-attack “probable” and suggested that World War III has already commenced.
Despite these unfounded claims, the incident remains under investigation. Maryland’s Democratic Governor, Wes Moore, informed reporters that the ship had issued a mayday call prior to the collision, which enabled authorities to halt bridge traffic. “These people are heroes,” he declared. “They saved lives last night.”