Rep. Jasmine Crockett from Texas faced a wave of criticism on social media after making a controversial remark about Governor Greg Abbott, who has been in a wheelchair since a tragic accident in his 20s. This incident occurred during a Human Rights Campaign event in Los Angeles, where Crockett referred to Abbott as “Governor Hot Wheels,” stating, “the only thing hot about him is that he is a hot-a** mess.”
Following the backlash, Crockett tried to clarify her comments, insisting that her words were not aimed at Abbott’s disability. She explained that her focus was on the policies he has implemented, particularly regarding the transportation of migrants into communities led by Black mayors. “I wasn’t thinking about the governor’s condition,” she said. “I was referencing his terrible policies.”
Crockett expressed frustration over the attention her remarks received, suggesting that critics were more interested in attacking her than in addressing important issues. She pointed out that those criticizing her often support former President Trump, who has a history of making insensitive remarks about disabilities.
However, many online users questioned her defense. They highlighted that she had recently shared a post that specifically mentioned Abbott’s wheelchair. The post criticized Abbott for attending a White House event where President Biden signed an executive order that could impact educational access for children with disabilities.
Governor Abbott’s accident occurred in 1984 when a tree fell on him while he was jogging, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. He has since gone on to have a successful political career, serving as Texas’s governor.
Crockett’s comments and the subsequent fallout have sparked discussions about the intersection of politics and personal identity, especially regarding how public figures address issues of disability.