Crockett Declares Senate Bid Amid Controversial Statements
Representative Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) officially announced her candidacy for the Texas Senate on Monday, right before the deadline. After weeks of hints about a possible run, she made it official. Known as a strong critic of Trump, she argues that a “louder voice” is needed in the political discourse.
However, it raises a question: is her brand of progressivism too radical for a party that’s, perhaps, trying to balance control and appease its more extreme members? It’s hard to say. But what’s clear is that Crockett has generated attention over the past year with some pretty outlandish statements that are likely to come back up during her campaign.
Here are some of the most notable things she has said:
1. Linking Trump’s Policies to Food Prices
This year, Crockett suggested on CBS News that deportations could be tied to rising grocery prices. She argues that if people connect the dots, they might understand how immigration policy impacts their wallets. “The reason they can’t afford food is because of failed immigration policy,” she asserted, although it’s unclear how deporting those who commit crimes affects food costs.
2. Claims on Violent Crime
During a CNN appearance, Crockett claimed that “white supremacists” are behind a significant portion of violent crimes. She was particularly vocal against Trump’s administration for trying to eliminate diversity and inclusion policies, labeling Trump himself a white supremacist. “If you really want to know who the criminals are in this country, just Google it,” she said.
3. Warning of “Discord”
In a somewhat surprising address, she mentioned that “discord is about to begin,” urging people to avoid watching Trump’s speeches. She accompanied this with a video of herself lip-syncing and dancing with colleagues, wrapping up in a “Resist” t-shirt.
4. Uncertainty About Future Elections
In a conversation with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Crockett expressed uncertainty about whether there would even be elections in four years, suggesting that leadership discussions are happening among her peers.
5. Remarks About Gov. Greg Abbott
Crockett previously used the term “Hot Wheels governor” when referring to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair. She later clarified that her comments were about his actions, not his disability, but the phrasing raised eyebrows.
6. Calling Trump an “Enemy”
She has characterized Trump as an enemy of the United States, suggesting that his actions pose a risk to the nation. “What exactly is it that you’re literally putting us at risk right now?” she questioned during an MSNBC interview.
7. Describing Trump’s Supporters as Cult-like
Crockett expressed confusion over Trump’s popularity among his supporters, referring to them as being in a “cult.” She urged followers to focus on their own wellbeing rather than being misled by what she views as harmful rhetoric.
8. “Grim Reaper” Remark
Referring to Trump’s policies, she called him “the Grim Reaper” and warned that his administration is steering the country toward detrimental outcomes. “The Grim Reaper is lurking,” she stated, cautioning against complacency.
9. Allegations of Using Hitler-like Tactics
Crockett has drawn parallels between Trump’s approach to consolidating power and tactics used by Hitler, highlighting concerns about freedom of speech and political dissent.
10. Comments on the Rhetoric of Charlie Kirk
She remarked on Kirk’s rhetoric being harmful to minorities, suggesting that it exacerbates social tensions.
11. Criticism of Trump on Immigration
She accused Trump of hypocrisy for being against the very actions his party takes against illegal immigrant criminals, despite highlighting safety concerns.
12. Abrasive Remarks About Trump
Crockett has not held back, labeling Trump a “wannabe Hitler” and using colorful language to describe his actions.
13. Mocking SNAP Reforms
She also criticized Christian lawmakers for seeking reforms in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), framing it as a way to deprive hungry people of food.
14. Comparisons to Concentration Camps
She claimed that the government’s deportation practices resemble actions that lead to concentration camps, expressing concern over the treatment of individuals during deportations.
15. Comments on Immigrant Labor
Crockett has remarked that Black Americans are “no longer picking cotton,” suggesting that immigrant labor is essential for agriculture in the current economy.
