Jasmine Crockett Condemns MAGA Rhetoric Following Charlie Kirk's Death
Representative Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) has strongly criticized conservatives for their immediate blaming of Democrats following the death of Charlie Kirk, a right-wing activist and ally of President Donald Trump. Kirk was fatally shot on Wednesday at Utah Valley University.
Crockett's Response to Partisan Rhetoric
During an appearance on "The Breakfast Club," Crockett condemned what she called partisan rhetoric, emphasizing that facts were still being gathered. She expressed dismay that some Republican colleagues immediately attributed blame to Democrats, even before details of the shooting were confirmed.
"I hate that some of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle immediately came out and they were like, ‘Oh, you know, this is on the Democrats.’ Like, we don’t even know who did what. And ya’ll are like, ‘This is on the Democrats.’"
Conservative Accusations and Reactions
Numerous conservatives, including Fox News host Jesse Watters and former President Donald Trump, have suggested that Democrats and the media bear responsibility for Kirk's death. Watters claimed "they" are "at war with us," while Trump accused "the radical left" during an Oval Office address on Wednesday.
Focus on Facts and Motives
Crockett emphasized the importance of denouncing political violence, regardless of the perpetrator's affiliation. She highlighted her experience as a criminal defense attorney, noting that much violence is personal and cautioned against prematurely attributing political motives to Kirk's shooter.
Crockett further suggested examining potential factors that may have "radicalized" the shooter, referencing past instances where individuals who targeted presidents had ties to the Republican Party. She referenced Thomas Matthew Crooks, who attempted to assassinate Trump in Pennsylvania, and Ryan Routh, who allegedly tried to shoot Trump at his Florida golf club.
Controversy Surrounding Potential Motives
Crockett also addressed claims made by some conservatives who quickly blamed the trans community for Kirk's death. Figures like Donald Trump Jr. and Megyn Kelly made controversial statements linking trans people to violence. While a suspect has been apprehended, the motive for the shooting remains unclear, with initial reports of shell casings inscribed with "transgender and antifascist ideology" already being walked back.
Calls for Action Against White Supremacy
Crockett criticized the lack of legislative action addressing white supremacy, stating that many shootings are linked to "white supremacy ideology." She accused Republicans of dismissing such concerns as "race-baiting" and insisted on the importance of addressing the issue based on factual evidence. Crockett asserted that she operates "going on facts".
