WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas, is under fire from Republican lawmakers following her comments at a Human Rights Campaign dinner in Los Angeles, where she referred to Texas Governor Greg Abbott as ‘Governor Hot Wheels.’
Abbott has been using a wheelchair since suffering a severe spinal injury from an accident in 1984 when a tree fell on him. Crockett’s remark during the event sparked immediate backlash from conservative representatives and commentators online.
During her speech, Crockett said, ‘We in these hot-ass Texas streets, honey. Y’all know we got governor hot wheels down there, come on now. And the only thing hot about him is that he is a hot-ass mess, honey.’
Abbott’s aides did not respond to requests for comments about the incident.
Following the dissemination of her comments, several Republican figures harshly criticized Crockett. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton labeled her remarks as ‘despicable’ on social media platform X.
Crockett responded to the criticism, stating that Republicans are using her comments to distract from more serious matters, such as top national security officials sharing war plans inappropriately on a private messaging platform. ‘The Republicans are good at distractions,’ she stated, emphasizing that the focus should be on the issues that truly matter.
Crockett further clarified that her comments were aimed at Abbott’s policies, not his disability, stating, ‘At no point did I mention or allude to his condition.’ She expressed disappointment that those who previously supported controversial figures are now offended by her words.
Throughout her brief political career, Crockett has gained attention for her bold rhetoric and outspokenness. She has served in Congress since 2022 and gained wider recognition while campaigning for then-Vice President Kamala Harris. Her comments often generate significant social media engagement, and she has established herself as a prominent voice within the Democratic Party.
In light of the situation, U.S. Rep. Randy Weber expressed intentions to introduce formal reprimands against Crockett for what he termed ‘disgraceful’ conduct. The debate surrounding Crockett’s comments signals ongoing tensions between party lines in Texas politics and highlights the sensitivity of discussing disability in a political sphere.
As the story unfolds, it remains evident that public discourse surrounding political figures can elicit strong reactions, especially when intertwined with personal challenges.
