Rep. Jasmine Crockett from Texas spoke out on Sunday about her decision to vote against a House resolution that condemned the rhetoric of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. During an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” she shared her perspective on why she felt unable to support the resolution, which was passed by the House.
Crockett, one of 58 Democrats who voted against the measure, expressed her disappointment that only two white members of Congress joined her in opposing the resolution. She described Kirk as a “New Age (Confederate) relic,” suggesting that his views were harmful, particularly to people of color. She pointed out that Kirk had made negative remarks about her just a month before his death, which she felt made it impossible for her to honor him.
“I’m not honoring that kind of stuff,” Crockett stated, emphasizing her background as a civil rights attorney. She highlighted the sacrifices made by those who fought for civil rights and expressed her frustration that some of her colleagues did not recognize the potential harm of Kirk’s rhetoric.
Crockett drew a parallel between Kirk and Confederate symbols, arguing that just as those symbols should be removed, so too should Kirk’s legacy not be celebrated. She lamented that more people did not see the damage that his words could inflict on communities like hers.
In response to Crockett’s claims, conservative commentator Scott Jennings defended Kirk, asserting that he did not target anyone and was not racist. Jennings criticized the lack of challenge to Crockett’s statements during her interview with CNN’s Dana Bash.
The exchange highlighted the ongoing tensions in American politics regarding race and rhetoric, showcasing differing perspectives on the impact of public figures like Kirk.
