House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) has come under fire after Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-Va.) agreed with a conservative radio host's racist remark about him, prompting calls for her resignation from Democrats.
Key Takeaways
Democrats are calling for Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-Va.) to resign after she agreed with a radio host's racist remark about House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.).
- Democrats demand resignation of Rep. Jen Kiggans over 'cotton-picking' remark
- Kiggans initially agreed but later said she did not condone the language
- Republicans hold slim majorities in Congress, with control up for grabs in November midterms
The controversy began on Monday when Rich Herrera, the host of 'Richmond’s Morning News,' suggested that Jeffries, who is Black, should 'get your cotton-picking hands off of Virginia.' Kiggans replied, 'That's right. Ditto. Yes, yes to that.'
Kiggans later clarified on social media that she did not condone the language but agreed with the sentiment that Jeffries should stay out of Virginia politics. However, Democrats have denounced her response as insufficient.
'Extremists who endorse disgusting, vile and racist language are pathetic,' said Christie Stephenson, a spokesperson for Jeffries. 'Jen Kiggans has no interest in our nation’s progress toward a multi-racial democracy.' Rep. Robin Kelly (D-Ill.) called on Kiggans to resign from the Maternity Care Caucus and Congress.
The incident has sparked broader discussions about racism and political discourse, with Democrats urging Republicans to denounce the remark. Meanwhile, Republicans hold slim majorities in both chambers of Congress, with control up for grabs in November's midterm elections.
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