Crockett Condemns Greene as ‘Racist’ After Contentious House Committee Meeting

After a tense House Oversight markup session turned into personal attacks, Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett publicly criticized Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, accusing her of racism.

During the meeting, tensions ran high as discussions revolved around contempt proceedings against Attorney General Merrick Garland. Greene’s remarks about Crockett’s appearance, specifically her fake eyelashes, ignited controversy.

Addressing the media the next day, Crockett condemned Greene’s behavior as racist, stating firmly, “That’s all it is, it is racism. And she decided that she was going to be that person out loud and out front yesterday.” Crockett emphasized her conviction, stating unequivocally, “She is racist. I mean, I don’t have any questions about that.”

When asked about the racist undertones of Greene’s comments, Crockett pointed to Greene echoing rhetoric commonly associated with supporters of the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement. Crockett sarcastically recounted the superficial criticisms she often faces, highlighting the diversion from substantive issues.

Crockett underscored the targeted nature of Greene’s remarks, highlighting the lack of similar comments directed at other women in Congress. She noted, “I am not the only woman in Congress that wears lashes, and there are women on her side of the aisle that wear lashes as well, as well as hair extensions. But she’s never felt like that was a dig that she needed to take at anyone except for me, a Black woman who sits on the committee.”

In response, Greene’s office attempted to shift blame onto Crockett, alleging that Crockett was the first to reference color. Greene defended her remarks on social media, claiming they were factual observations rather than personal attacks.

Despite calls to strike Greene’s comments from the record, she was allowed to continue speaking during the markup, underscoring the challenges of maintaining decorum in Congress amidst heightened partisanship.

The contentious exchange between Crockett and Greene reflects the polarized atmosphere within Congress, where personal attacks often overshadow substantive debate.

House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed regret over the breakdown of decorum during the meeting, emphasizing the importance of treating one another with dignity and respect. However, Greene dismissed Johnson’s criticism, accusing him of hypocrisy.

Members of the House Oversight Committee from both parties expressed dismay at the disrespectful conduct, reaffirming the need for civility and professionalism in legislative proceedings.