News: Mocking Wheelchair in USA Sparks Criticism

 

Mocking Wheelchair in USA Sparks Criticism

The controversy surrounding Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett intensified after her appearance at the Human Rights Campaign's annual dinner in Los Angeles.   During her speech, Crockett referred to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair due to a past accident, as "Governor Hot Wheels." This comment immediately drew sharp criticism, with many interpreting it as a direct mockery of the governor's disability.  

The incident unfolded during a 21-minute speech where, about four and a half minutes in, Crockett addressed her home state.  "We in these hot a** Texas streets, honey," she began, before adding, "Y'all know we got Governor Hot Wheels down there, c'mon now." "The only thing hot about him is that he is a hot a** mess." The crowd responded with laughter and applause, and Crockett briefly joked about deviating from her prepared remarks.

The backlash was swift and severe.    Critics, including figures like Turning Point CEO Charlie Kirk, condemned her words. "Jasmine Crockett continues to embarrass herself, the state of Texas, and the U.S. Congress," Kirk stated on X, highlighting Abbott's paralysis from a 1984 accident. Libs of TikTok echoed this sentiment, calling the comment "sickening".

In response to the mounting criticism, Crockett took to X, attempting to clarify her remarks.  "I wasn't thinking about the governor's condition—I was thinking about the planes, trains, and automobiles he used to transfer migrants into communities led by Black mayors, deliberately stoking tension and fear among the most vulnerable," she explained.  "Literally, the next line I said was that he was a 'Hot A** Mess,' referencing his terrible policies. At no point did I mention or allude to his condition."

Crockett further pointed out the perceived hypocrisy of her critics, noting that those who support figures known for mocking disabilities were now expressing outrage. She drew a direct parallel to past actions, "So, I'm even more appalled that the very people who unequivocally support Trump—a man known for racially insensitive nicknames and mocking those with disabilities—are now outraged.”

The National Republican Congressional Committee also weighed in, with press secretary Mike Marinella stating, "Jasmine Crockett is the perfect spokesperson for today's Democrats: out of touch and completely unhinged." "When you've got no message and no agenda, all that's left is hate."

Source:
NewsWeek & Texastribune