Republican senator whose daughter has Down syndrome issues scathing response to Trump using ‘the R-word’
Republican state legislator Michael Bohacek has publicly criticized Donald Trump for using a slur against people with disabilities. This came after the former president insultingly described Minnesota Governor Tim Walz with the derogatory term “r****ded.”
Trump made the remark on Truth Social over Thanksgiving, attacking Walz’s governance and alleging Somali refugees were “taking over.” The comment sparked widespread condemnation from across the political spectrum.
Bohacek, whose daughter has Down syndrome, cited the offensive language as his reason for opposing a Republican redistricting plan. He stated he has long been an advocate for people with intellectual disabilities.
In a statement, Bohacek declared he would vote against the redistricting effort. He suggested Trump use the coming months to convince voters his policies and behavior merit a congressional majority.
The legislator emphasized that the president’s choice of words has consequences. He noted this was not the first time Trump had used such insulting references.
Online backlash was swift, with many criticizing Trump for his holiday weekend post. One user described it as the action of a “miserable” person lashing out.
Governor Tim Walz responded on NBC’s *Meet the Press*, calling the remarks an example of Trump’s “cruelness.” He stressed the term is deeply damaging, both as a former educator and a parent.
