U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat from Dallas, took aim at former President Donald Trump during her speech at the Democratic National Convention on Monday, branding him a "career criminal." In her address, Crockett drew sharp comparisons between Trump's history and Vice President Kamala Harris' extensive career in public service and law enforcement.
"One candidate worked at McDonald's while attending an HBCU in college. The other was born into wealth and assisted his father in a family business rooted in housing discrimination," Crockett remarked, eliciting enthusiastic laughter from the audience. "She built a career as a prosecutor, while he accumulated 34 felonies, faced two impeachments, and has a scandal involving a porn star to his name."
Crockett continued her pointed critique by stating, "Kamala Harris boasts an impressive résumé; Donald Trump carries a rap sheet. She leads the Senate, while he stores national secrets beside his favorite chair at Mar-a-Lago."
A Rising Star in the Democratic Party
As the first Texan in Congress to speak on the main stage of this year's convention, Crockett's appearance underscores her rapid ascent within the Democratic Party. Despite being a freshman in the U.S. House and having served just one term in the Texas House, she has become a prominent voice by passionately advocating for Democratic priorities and frequently challenging Republicans during public committee hearings.
Crockett's prowess as a communicator was evident early in her political career. As a state representative, she played a pivotal role in the 2021 Democratic quorum break in the Texas House, aiming to delay Republican-led voting legislation. Prior to her tenure in elected office, Crockett worked as a public defense attorney specializing in civil rights law. Reflecting on her legal background, she praised Harris as "the kind of prosecutor we always hoped for," highlighting Harris' initiatives mandating body cameras for police officers and efforts to reduce repeat offenses.
Personal Connection with Vice President Harris
Crockett also shared a heartfelt anecdote about her early days in Congress when she felt uncertain about her decision to serve amid political turmoil, including difficulties electing a House Speaker and contentious Oversight Committee meetings.
"During my first meeting with Vice President Harris at her residence, she immediately sensed my distress," Crockett recounted, her voice filled with emotion. "I broke down in tears, and the most powerful woman in the world comforted me, saying, 'You are exactly where God wants you to be.'"
She added, "Just a month later, I went viral for the first of many times to come," subtly referencing a notable exchange where she defended herself against mocking remarks from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene by delivering a sharp retort that gained widespread attention online.
Concluding her speech with a playful jab, Crockett asked, "Will a vindictive, vile villain violate voters’ vision for a better America or not?" prompting laughter and applause. She then quipped, "I hear alliteration is back in style."
Other Texan Voices at the Convention
Several other prominent Texans took the stage on Monday night, including Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and abortion rights activist Amanda Zurawski. Country singer and Arlington native Mickey Guyton kicked off the evening with a performance of her song "All American."
Judge Hidalgo, who oversees Texas' most populous county, commended Harris for promptly visiting Texas to distribute FEMA aid following Hurricane Beryl, just as she launched her campaign. Hidalgo also lauded the Biden-Harris administration's commitment to climate policy, noting that it has directed over a billion dollars to help protect communities from extreme weather events.
"We deserve leaders who acknowledge and address the realities of climate change," Hidalgo stated. "Leaders who are tough, compassionate, and ready to help. That's Kamala Harris and Tim Walz."
Amanda Zurawski, who became an advocate for abortion rights after doctors refused to terminate her compromised pregnancy under Texas' restrictive laws, shared her emotional story alongside her husband, Josh.
"Every time I share our story, my heart breaks—for our baby girl we desperately wanted, for the medical professionals who couldn't help me safely deliver her, and for Josh, who feared he might lose me too," Zurawski said tearfully. "But I was lucky. I lived."
She emphasized the urgency of voting, noting that over a third of American women of reproductive age live under abortion bans. "We need to vote as if lives depend on it because they do," she urged.
Democratic Leaders Unite on Stage
The convention featured appearances from several key figures in the Democratic Party, including President Joe Biden, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, and Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Jim Clyburn.
Hillary Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential nominee, highlighted Harris' role in advancing women's leadership. "Together, we've put countless cracks in the highest, hardest glass ceiling," Clinton said, referencing her historic nomination. "On the other side of that glass ceiling stands Kamala Harris, ready to take the oath as the 47th president of the United States."
In a surprise appearance, Vice President Harris took the stage to thunderous applause accompanied by Beyoncé's "Freedom," a staple anthem of her campaign. She expressed gratitude to President Biden for his leadership and decision to pass the torch to a new generation by stepping down from the ticket.
"Joe, thank you for your historic leadership, for your lifetime of service to our nation, and for all you will continue to do," Harris said warmly. "We are forever grateful to you."
0 Comments