President Donald Trump criticized Rep. Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat from Texas, as ‘a very low IQ person’ during an Oval Office signing ceremony on Thursday. The comments, which drew laughter from some in the room, came as part of Trump’s broader attack on Democratic lawmakers, particularly those from his so-called ‘Squad.’ Trump, while signing executive orders in the Oval Office, went off-script to accuse Crockett of being ‘a very low IQ person’ and questioning her role in Congress. He also joked that Somalia should ‘take back’ Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Democrat from Minnesota who was born in Mogadishu.
Crockett, a freshman Democrat from Texas, has quickly gained visibility for her combative style during House hearings and her clashes with Republicans. Omar, meanwhile, has long been a target of Trump’s criticism over her pro-Palestinian views and outspoken progressive agenda. Trump’s remarks are likely to energize his base, who see his plain-spoken approach as a refreshing break from Washington norms.
The president’s comments came as he addressed reporters during a proclamation and executive order signing, where his remarks shifted from the day’s policy agenda to sharp critiques of Democrat lawmakers. He grouped Crockett with Omar, reviving criticism he has often directed at members of the so-called ‘Squad.’ His anecdote about suggesting to Somalia’s leader that Omar be ‘taken back’ drew laughter from some in the room.
Trump’s remarks are likely to fuel further political tensions, as Democrats have already condemned the comments as inappropriate and unbecoming of a president. The White House, Crockett, and Omar did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s requests for comment.