Following a surprise visit to House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) in the hospital on Wednesday, President Trump tweeted praise for the lawmaker, calling him a "fighter" and asking followers to "pray for Steve."

"Just left hospital. Rep. Steve Scalise, one of the truly great people, is in very tough shape — but he is a real fighter. Pray for Steve!" Trump tweeted late Wednesday.

Just left hospital. Rep. Steve Scalise, one of the truly great people, is in very tough shape - but he is a real fighter. Pray for Steve! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 15, 2017

Trump and first lady Melania Trump visited Scalise in the hospital late Wednesday, according to a pool report.

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Scalise was shot along with four others Wednesday morning at a baseball park in Alexandria, Va., as GOP members of Congress were practicing for an upcoming charity game against their Democratic colleagues.

Scalise was rushed to MedStar Washington Hospital Center for surgery. He remains in critical condition, and according to the hospital will be receiving a second surgery to help stop bleeding.