Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) faces fierce Republican backlash after mocking Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s disability at a Human Rights Campaign event. During her speech, Crockett referred to Abbott — paralyzed since 1984 — as “Governor Hot Wheels” and called him “a hot ass mess.” Republicans swiftly condemned the remarks, with Rep. Randy Weber (R-Texas) drafting a censure resolution, calling the comments “discriminatory” and “unbecoming” of a lawmaker.
Texas Sen. John Cornyn labeled the remarks “disgraceful,” arguing such language from a Republican would dominate national headlines. The National Republican Congressional Committee accused Crockett of embodying Democratic “hate”, while conservative figures like Charlie Kirk and Riley Gaines amplified criticism on social media. Attorney General Ken Paxton called Crockett “despicable,” and Sen. Ted Cruz’s allies suggested her comments could incite violence.
Crockett claimed she criticized Abbott’s policies — particularly his migrant busing program — not his disability. She contrasted Republican outrage with their support for Donald Trump, who has a history of mocking opponents. Despite her clarification, disability advocates noted the remark’s ableist undertones, though Abbott’s office remained silent.
Censure efforts against Crockett follow a trend of increasing partisan discipline in Congress, with four House Democrats facing censure since 2023. Abbott, a staunch conservative, has clashed repeatedly with the Biden administration over border security, making him a frequent Democratic target. Critics argue Crockett’s rhetoric distracts from policy debates, while supporters view it as pushback against Abbott’s controversial measures.
