Crockett’s Meltdown Over Atlantic Profile Sparks Backlash

Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s attempt to derail a revealing Atlantic profile has conservatives cheering and journalists jeering. The Texas Democrat’s fiery reaction to standard reporting practices exposes her thin skin and shaky standing among peers. What drove her to try silencing the press, and what does it say about her political future?
Summary
- Rep. Jasmine Crockett tried to block an Atlantic profile after the reporter contacted other Democrats without her knowledge.
- Crockett’s outburst, claiming she was “shutting down” the piece, was mocked for misunderstanding journalism.
- The profile revealed Crockett’s abrasive style, alienating colleagues and losing her Oversight Committee bid.
- Critics, including conservatives, see her actions as narcissistic and politically damaging.
- Her social media clout failed to secure Democratic leadership support.
A Democrat’s Failed Power Play
Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), made headlines for all the wrong reasons when she tried to halt an Atlantic profile set to explore her rise as a progressive firebrand. The article, published Sunday, detailed her frustration when journalist Elaine Godfrey contacted other House Democrats without her permission. “She was, she told me, ‘shutting down the profile and revoking all permissions,’” Godfrey wrote, capturing Crockett’s attempt to control the narrative.
The move backfired, drawing ridicule from journalists and conservatives alike. “That is not how any of this works,” NBC News reporter Sahil Kapur posted on X, echoing a chorus of media voices slamming Crockett’s misunderstanding of basic journalism.
A Profile That Stings
The Atlantic piece, titled “A Democrat for the Trump Era,” painted a vivid picture of Crockett’s combative style and questionable leadership. Godfrey noted Crockett’s obsession with her image, from her phone’s lock screen—a headshot of herself—to acrylic nails emblazoned with “RESIST.” During an interview, Crockett scolded a staffer over a schedule mix-up and dismissed food from a fundraiser, saying, “This looks like crap.”
Crockett’s bid for the top Democratic spot on the House Oversight Committee was a focal point. She pitched herself as a social media savant, boasting to Rep. Maxine Dexter that her large online following made her the ideal candidate. “The base is thirsty,” Crockett told Dexter, claiming she could make voters feel heard. Yet, her campaign fizzled, garnering only six votes in a key Democratic panel, landing her last among four candidates.
Colleagues Keep Their Distance
The profile revealed Crockett’s strained relationships with fellow Democrats. Godfrey contacted 33 House Democrats, but 13 Oversight and Judiciary Committee members and 20 others either declined to comment or ignored requests. Senior staffers anonymously described her as “undisciplined” and a “loose cannon” who “causes headaches for other members.”
Crockett’s criticism of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) didn’t help. She privately called their “Fighting Oligarchy” tour self-promotional, saying it made people think, “Oh, it’s about them, right? Instead of the team.” This jab at party stars likely cost her support, with conservatives like Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Mich., seizing the moment to mock her.
Conservatives Pounce, Media Mocks
Crockett’s attempt to suppress the article handed conservatives a golden opportunity. “Jasmine Crockett’s ego is bigger than her district,” quipped Fox News contributor David Webb on Fox & Friends First. Her actions fueled accusations of narcissism, especially after reports of her cutting in front of disabled passengers to board a flight. “Nothing to see here, just the next leader of the Democrats, abusing her power!” McClain posted on X.
Journalists were equally unsparing. “Free advice to profile subjects: do not ever do this,” wrote The Bulwark’s Joe Perticone. National Review’s Noah Rothman joked, “Dang. That usually works, too!” The consensus was clear: Crockett’s outburst was a rookie mistake that exposed her inexperience.
A Political Misstep with Lasting Impact
Crockett’s failed Oversight Committee bid and her reaction to the Atlantic profile underscore her precarious position. Despite her viral moments—like calling Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene a “bleach blond bad built butch body”—her legislative record is thin, with no lead-sponsored bills becoming law. Her 2024 re-election saw 7,000 fewer votes than her predecessor, Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, signaling waning support even in her safe Dallas district.
As Crockett eyes a potential 2026 Senate run against Sen. John Cornyn, conservatives argue her antics alienate voters. “She’s loud, but not effective,” said Townhall columnist Matt Vespa. “Her tantrum shows she’s more about headlines than results.” With Democrats distancing themselves and her social media clout failing to translate into leadership, Crockett’s future hangs in the balance.