Texas Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett is facing criticism after referring to Republican Governor Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair, as “Governor Hot Wheels.” The comment has sparked renewed scrutiny of Crockett’s outspoken style, which has garnered her national attention over the past year.

In response to the remark, Rep. Randy Weber (R-Texas) proposed a formal censure, calling it part of a pattern of “inappropriate comments.”

Although Crockett maintains the comment was not directed at Abbott’s disability, it was widely condemned by both Texas and national Republicans, as well as by some voices on the left. Former President Donald Trump labeled her a “lowlife,” while Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) described her language as “shameful.” Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton went further, calling Crockett “despicable.”

Gov. Abbott himself responded during an appearance on Fox News, suggesting that such rhetoric would only bolster Republican momentum:
“Republican-led states like Texas are setting the pace. When Democrats resort to this kind of behavior, we’ll just continue to outpace them in the elections,” Abbott said to host Sean Hannity.

Conservative media figures also chimed in. Fox News commentator Lisa Kennedy Montgomery used a vulgar phrase to accuse Crockett of seeking attention.

Crockett has not backed down. She dismissed the Republican outrage as disingenuous, arguing her “Hot Wheels” comment referred to Abbott’s policy of transporting migrants to northern cities, particularly those led by Black mayors.

On Tuesday, she highlighted what she saw as hypocrisy:
“It’s shocking that the same people who support Trump—a man known for mocking the disabled and using racially charged language—are now pretending to be outraged,” Crockett said.

The following day, Crockett took to X (formerly Twitter), suggesting the backlash was a smokescreen to distract from a separate controversy involving Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who allegedly sent classified military details via text to journalist Jeffrey Goldberg.

“This is exactly the kind of incompetence some of us warned about,” she wrote. “But sure, keep being fixated on fake outrage from people who lack empathy.” She added that attempts to silence her only made her more determined to speak out.

Crockett’s team did not reply to a request for comment from The Hill.

The firestorm follows another incident in which Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi criticized Crockett for previous remarks about Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Crockett had said Musk needed to be “taken down” and “knocked over the head,” though Bondi misquoted the second phrase as “taken out.” Bondi demanded an apology on behalf of Tesla investors, claiming “words have consequences” during a segment on Fox News.

Bondi also implied that Crockett’s rhetoric may have influenced recent arson attacks on Tesla properties in Texas—an accusation Crockett strongly rejected, saying her comments were about encouraging a boycott, not violence.

Crockett, a civil rights attorney elected to the Texas House in 2021, has become known for her sharp comebacks and viral moments. Her confrontational style has made her a recognizable figure among progressive Democrats, though it has also drawn harsh criticism from conservatives.

So far, top Democrats have remained largely silent on the controversy. Some in the party see Crockett’s style as a necessary counterweight. Democratic strategist Antjuan Seawright argued that Crockett is tapping into a desire among activists for more aggressive tactics.

“There’s a feeling that Democrats don’t fight hard enough,” Seawright said. “If the other side doesn’t play by the rules, why should we hold ourselves back?”

Texas GOP strategist Brendan Steinhauser suggested that Crockett’s approach may rally her base but risks alienating moderate voters.

“It really comes down to your goal,” he said. “If you’re trying to grow your national profile, this might work. But if you’re trying to build a governing majority, it’s probably not the best approach.”

Steinhauser also pointed out the potential damage to the Democratic brand, which often emphasizes inclusivity and equity: “When you’re seen attacking someone in a protected class, like a person with a disability, it undermines your own values.”

Others argue that Crockett’s brashness is exactly what makes her stand out. Cliff Walker, a progressive consultant in Austin, said Crockett understands that political capital often comes from visibility.

“In today’s political environment, attention is currency,” he said. “She’s been remarkably effective at making people pay attention and take action.”

Crockett has frequently leaned into controversial statements. She once used profane language when referring to the bathroom where Donald Trump allegedly stored classified materials and labeled Republicans threatening a government shutdown as “a bunch of a–holes.” Following Trump’s Oval Office comments toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, she quipped that Trump should “grow a spine and stop being Putin’s ho.”

Despite receiving criticism for her Abbott comment, Crockett has seen a groundswell of support online. Many progressives defended her, arguing that Republicans who were quick to condemn her have overlooked or participated in far worse behavior. Social media users circulated past clips of Trump mocking people with disabilities and cited personal attacks Crockett herself has endured, often steeped in racist or sexist overtones.

One user sarcastically remarked, “You’d think she rolled Abbott out of his chair and did the stanky leg,” while another pointed to Abbott’s veto of a bill that would’ve expanded mail-in voting for Texans with disabilities.

“Greg Abbott has done real harm. If Crockett wants to call him out, she can,” another supporter posted.

Crockett made headlines during her freshman term in the Texas House, where she filed more bills than any other newcomer — though none passed in what GOP leaders called the most conservative session in years. She fiercely opposed Republican efforts to restrict voting rights and penalize cities that reduced police budgets.

During one fiery speech, she said, “In South Dallas, where I’m from, people fear for their lives. Instead of helping them, we’re punishing those already suffering. That’s what’s wrong here.”

Crockett has also shown a knack for personal branding. When a group of Texas Democrats fled to Washington to block a voting bill, she made time for her own live TV interview while other senior members fielded press questions.

Although she declined to join the progressive “Squad” in Congress, Crockett calls herself a “pragmatic progressive” and has even co-sponsored bipartisan legislation, including a food assistance bill with Rep. Mark Alford (R-Mo.).

Yet her rise is largely attributed to her clashes with high-profile Republicans. Her exchange with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene — who mocked her eyelashes during a hearing — ended with Crockett firing back with a jab about Greene’s appearance, a phrase her campaign later trademarked.

More recently, she tangled with Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) during a debate on LGBTQ rights. Crockett’s use of the word “child” prompted Mace to repeatedly shout, “I am not a child,” and challenge her to “take it outside.”

Ironically, Crockett has credited Mace as a role model in political theater: “She kept saying ‘s‑‑‑’ and it didn’t even land,” Crockett told TheGrio. “I was like, I can actually use that word effectively.”

Reflecting on her critics, Crockett posted earlier this month:
“If I’m living rent-free in MAGA minds during an economic crisis, I must be doing something right.”