Speaking at the White House, President Donald Trump said that House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA) is doing "worse off" than people initially thought, but that he still hopes the representative will eventually recover. Trump again called Scalise a "greater fighter," echoing his tweet from Wednesday evening.
At the White House, Trump says Scalise is “worse” off than he thought - "He's going to be ok, we hope"
— Charlie Spiering (@charliespiering) June 15, 2017
Scalise was shot in the left hip and suffered injuries to his internal organs, and has undergone three surgeries so far. He will likely need more. Initially, Scalise was reported to be in stable condition, but was downgraded to critical later on Wednesday. He has received "several" blood transfusions.
Lobbyist Matt Mika, who was also seriously wounded in Wednesday's shooting, is alert and able to communicate via notes. Mika was shot several times in the chest and arm, and remains in the intensive care unit on a breathing machine at George Washington University Hospital. He also will need further surgeries.
JUST IN: Family of lobbyist Matt Mika gives an update on his condition. pic.twitter.com/FHK6K9rwvT
— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) June 15, 2017
Vice President Mike Pence and his wife Karen visited Scalise on Thursday morning, and urged people to keep the congressman in their prayers.
Karen & I just left @MedStarWHC. Thanked docs & staff. Keep @SteveScalise, Officer Griner & all involved & their loved ones in your prayers. pic.twitter.com/JcKwTMLPDH
— Vice President Pence (@VP) June 15, 2017