Republican senator whose daughter has Down syndrome issues scathing response to Trump using ‘the R-word’

A Republican lawmaker whose daughter has Down syndrome has spoken out after President Donald Trump used a derogatory slur commonly aimed at people with disabilities. The remark drew widespread condemnation over the Thanksgiving weekend.

Trump targeted Minnesota Governor Tim Walz—Kamala Harris’ former running mate—claiming he had let Somali refugees “take over” parts of the state. He went on to describe Walz as “seriously r****ded,” prompting backlash not only from Democrats but from members of his own party.

The comments came as Trump and Republican allies push to redraw congressional districts in states with GOP governors ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The White House is hoping to rally support from as many Republicans as possible.

However, Indiana state senator Michael Bohacek, a Republican, said he would oppose the redistricting plan specifically because of Trump’s offensive language. Bohacek explained that he has long advocated for people with intellectual disabilities, especially since his second daughter, who has Down syndrome, was born.

He noted that this is not the first time Trump has used such insulting language and stressed that words have real consequences. Bohacek added he would vote against redistricting and suggested Trump use the coming months to prove he deserves a GOP majority.

Online, Trump faced intense criticism after the post spread beyond Truth Social. One user wrote that his message sounded like a bitter outburst rather than presidential leadership.

Governor Walz later addressed the incident on Meet the Press, calling Trump’s remark cruel and harmful, especially coming from someone who previously worked in education.