Democratic Del. Stacey Plaskett, representing the U.S. Virgin Islands, found herself in a contentious exchange during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing on Wednesday, where she challenged Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent over the accuracy of an economic chart she presented. Plaskett’s remarks centered on the cost of living, but she quickly realized the chart only extended to February 2025, which she argued was insufficient for the discussion on current economic trends. Bessent immediately pointed this out, stating that the chart was incorrect. Plaskett responded by accusing Bessent of consistently interrupting her during the hearing, which she described as a breach of decorum. She reminded him that in the chamber, individuals are expected to respect the rules of the floor, and that if he wanted to respond, he should wait until she had finished speaking.
Plaskett’s admonishment did not go without consequence. Bessent later retorted by asserting his own authority, stating that as someone with 40 years of experience in assessing market trends, he had the right to offer his insights. He emphasized that the stock market, measured by the S&P 500, had risen throughout the year, despite the economic challenges highlighted by Plaskett. This sparked further criticism, with some audience members openly disagreeing with both sides, and one commenter even suggested that the remarks were influenced by hormonal factors, a remark Plaskett took the opportunity to address in her response by referencing her post-menopausal state.
Bessent’s position on the economic data and his responses to Plaskett’s challenge were part of a broader debate on trade and tax policies that dominated the committee’s agenda. The discussion was tied to the ongoing reconciliation bill and the administration’s efforts to negotiate trade agreements with other nations. The hearing also highlighted the contentious nature of these economic policies, with businesses and lawmakers remaining divided over the effectiveness of current measures. As the debate continues, the exchange between Plaskett and Bessent remains a pivotal moment in the larger conversation about economic stability and policy implementation in the current administration.