On Thursday, Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) and Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) got into a heated argument during an oversight hearing in Congress, after progressive Democrats encouraged their peers to push back against what they termed President Trump’s “fascist takeover.”
Tlaib criticized her Republican colleagues for depicting Washington as a crime-ridden, decaying city, claiming they were merely regurgitating narratives sourced from elsewhere.
“It’s crucial that we confront this fascist takeover. That’s not an exaggeration; it’s reality,” Tlaib asserted in the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, responding to concerns about crime and federal responses in the capital.
“It’s essential that this committee doesn’t allow misleading rhetoric to misrepresent Washington, DC. You’re just reciting what someone else has written, rather than witnessing it firsthand,” she emphasized.
The exchange intensified when Donalds, a staunch supporter of Trump, countered Tlaib’s characterization of the situation as a “fascist takeover,” referring to the use of National Guard and federal law enforcement in the area.
He interjected, asking if Tlaib would entertain his question.
Despite her time running out, Tlaib continued speaking, ignoring committee chair James Comer (R-Ky.) as he reminded her of the time limit.
“My time may be up, but you’re all here and haven’t shared the beautiful aspects of our capital,” she asserted. “This approach is misguided.”
The back-and-forth escalated as both members of Congress raised their voices.
“Chairman, if he lacks an argument, then it’s absurd, but she’s likening me and my colleagues to the Third Reich!” Donald exclaimed.
“This is ridiculous. It’s just ridiculous,” he repeated emphatically.
“Do I appear to be a member of the Third Reich, Mr. Tlaib? What does that say to you?” he challenged.
Tlaib accused Donald of disparaging the lawmakers in Washington as “a bunch of children and criminals.” Earlier this week, the House had passed two crime bills targeting DC, allowing juveniles as young as 14 to be tried as adults, in response to rising violent crimes.
She also referenced a reported incident involving Donald, who was allegedly recorded voting while attending an event elsewhere in DC earlier this year.
“Come on, please,” Tlaib pressed. “You’re the one seen holding your voting card and passing it to someone else to commit a crime.”
The two did not address each other’s claims directly.
“Before criticizing Washington, DC, hold yourself accountable,” Tlaib urged Donald.
“Be responsible for your actions. What about that? You need to accept responsibility,” Donald shot back.
