Rep. Jasmine Crockett ignited a political firestorm by claiming former President Trump is more dangerous than an alleged MS-13 gang member during a recent MSNBC interview.
At a Glance
- Rep. Jasmine Crockett claimed on MSNBC that Trump is “a lot less criminal” than alleged MS-13 gang member Kilmar Abrego Garcia
- The controversial comparison drew immediate backlash on social media, with critics calling her “anti-American” and claiming she has “Trump Derangement Syndrome”
- This is the latest in a series of controversial statements by Crockett that has led to censure efforts in the House of Representatives
- The emotional interview with host Katie Phang, where both teared up, was widely criticized as performative
- President Trump has responded by calling Crockett “a lowlife” and “a very low-IQ person”
Crockett’s Explosive MS-13 Comparison
Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas, a member of the progressive “Squad,” made headlines after comparing former President Trump unfavorably to an alleged MS-13 gang member. During an appearance on “The Katie Phang Show” on MSNBC, Crockett claimed that suspected gang member Kilmar Abrego Garcia is “a lot less criminal” than Trump, pointing to the lack of criminal convictions against Abrego Garcia compared to Trump’s legal challenges. This statement was made while discussing Abrego Garcia’s deportation to El Salvador last month under the Trump administration’s use of the 18th-century Alien Enemies Act.
The comparison immediately drew fierce criticism from conservatives and Trump supporters. Social media erupted with condemnation, with many accusing the congresswoman of being out of touch with reality. “Jasmine Crockett is living in an alternate reality if she thinks that President Trump is worse than an MS-13 gang member,” said one detractor on social media platforms. Others pointed out the irony of defending someone suspected of ties to one of the world’s most violent criminal organizations while attacking a former president of the United States.
A Pattern of Controversial Statements
This MS-13 comparison is far from Crockett’s first controversial statement. At Grace Baptist Church’s 125th anniversary, she made remarks suggesting America needs robust immigration because “we done picking cotton,” a statement that many found divisive and inflammatory. “OK, so I’m lying? You’re not! You’re not! We done picking cotton! We are. You can’t pay us enough to find a plantation,” Crockett told the congregation, linking modern immigration policy to America’s history of slavery in a way that many critics found inappropriate.
“I think you punch, I think you’re OK with punching,” Crockett has also stated regarding Democrats’ political strategy, raising concerns about her advocacy for aggressive political tactics.
Crockett has faced additional criticism for comments about Texas Governor Greg Abbott, referring to him as “Governor Hot Wheels” and making remarks about him “rolling places” – references to Abbott’s use of a wheelchair that many found deeply offensive. She has also made controversial comments about the interracial marriage of Florida GOP Congressman Byron Donalds, and suggested that Senator Ted Cruz should be “knocked over the head.”
Political Consequences and Legal Warnings
The mounting controversies have led to significant pushback against Crockett. Rep. Randy Weber has introduced a censure resolution that is currently under consideration by the House Committee on Ethics. This formal rebuke, if passed, would represent a serious blow to Crockett’s standing in Congress. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has also weighed in, warning Crockett to “tread carefully” following her controversial statements, particularly after comments about Elon Musk amid violence against Tesla owners.
“Let’s be real — her Trump Derangement Syndrome is off the charts, and it’s no surprise she’s melting down over his first 100 days,” commented one social media user after her latest controversy.
Former President Trump himself has responded to Crockett’s attacks, calling her “a lowlife” and “a very low-IQ person.” Despite the backlash, Crockett has largely refused to apologize for her statements. After the controversy regarding her comments about Governor Abbott, she issued a statement denying any mockery of his condition rather than offering a direct apology.
Media Reaction and Public Response
The MSNBC interview that sparked the latest controversy featured an emotional exchange between Crockett and host Katie Phang, with both appearing to tear up during their discussion about democracy.
Critics quickly labeled the segment as performative and excessive. “You can’t have me crying at the beginning of a show. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, you’re not… You haven’t seen the last of me. Thank you for being here and getting us started today. I always appreciate you,” Phang told her guest in a moment many critics found overly dramatic.
Social media platforms erupted with mockery of the exchange, with users calling it a “clown show” and questioning the authenticity of the emotional display. The backlash extends beyond partisan criticism, raising questions about media objectivity and the boundaries of political discourse in America’s increasingly divided landscape. The controversy underscores the tensions between free speech and responsible rhetoric from elected officials, particularly in an era of heightened political polarization.
