President Donald Trump veered from his prepared remarks during a signing ceremony in the Oval Office on Thursday, taking aim at two Democratic congresswomen with a series of personal attacks.
In the middle of signing proclamations and executive orders, Trump turned his focus to Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas, labeling her “a very low IQ person” and questioning how she was elected to Congress.
“Recently, Jasmine Crockett. Yes, yes, I remember what I said. Is she any relation to the late, great Davy Crockett? I don’t think so,” Trump said to reporters. He continued, “Let me tell you before you even ask. She’s a very low IQ person. I mean, if we ever had to pass an aptitude test, that’s the one [who] should take one. … This is a low IQ person who I can’t even believe is a congressperson.”
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The president then linked Crockett to Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, a frequent target of his criticism. “Between her and Ilhan Omar … and, you know, I met the head of Somalia. Did you know that? And I suggested that maybe he’d like to take her back. And he said, ‘I don’t want her,’” Trump said.
Crockett, a freshman lawmaker known for her fiery exchanges during hearings, has quickly risen in profile within the House. Omar, for her part, has been a consistent critic of Trump and an outspoken advocate on issues ranging from Palestine to immigration.
The president’s latest remarks highlight his continued focus on Democratic progressives, particularly members of the “Squad.” While such rhetoric often draws condemnation from opponents, it has also energized his supporters, who view his blunt language as a rejection of Washington convention.
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