During a House Oversight and Accountability Subcommittee on Health Care and Financial Services hearing, U.S. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat, expressed strong criticism towards the Heritage Foundation and certain states for their conservative legislation. The hearing focused on proposed changes to Title IX by the Biden administration, specifically regarding the definition of sexual discrimination to include gender identity.
Crockett called out the Heritage Foundation, represented by Sarah Parshall Perry, a policy expert for the conservative think tank, as well as her own state of Texas. She referred to certain states, including Texas and Florida, as “deplorable” and accused the Heritage Foundation of sending “nonsense bills” that she believes set the country on the wrong trajectory.
Crockett’s remarks came after U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman of Wisconsin, a Republican colleague, spoke at the hearing. She criticized Grothman and other lawmakers for being out of touch with women’s needs, suggesting that states are pushing back against such lawmakers. However, she also acknowledged that some states allow individuals to raise their voices.
Republican Rep. Majorie Taylor Greene objected to the use of the term “deplorable” and requested it to be removed from the official record, but her request was denied. Crockett’s comments also touched on issues such as rape, abortion, and access to bathrooms.
Riley Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer who has spoken out against transgender males participating in women’s sports, was among the individuals who testified at the hearing. The chair of the subcommittee, Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Michigan, tried to refocus the hearing on the importance of protecting female athletes and Title IX amidst the heated exchange.
The Heritage Foundation’s president, Kevin Roberts, responded to Crockett on social media, thanking her for the endorsement and affirming the organization’s love for Texas.
While the hearing became tense and veered off track, with various lawmakers expressing differing opinions, it ultimately highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding transgender participation in women’s sports and the potential impact of Title IX changes proposed by the Biden administration.
The concerns raised by both Democrats and Republicans reflect the broader divisions within the country on issues related to gender identity and the role of government in protecting women’s rights in sports. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how policymakers will navigate this complex and contentious topic.
