Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett is facing intense backlash after making controversial remarks about former First Lady Melania Trump during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on immigration.
Crockett, a Democrat known for her fiery rhetoric, criticized Melania’s path to U.S. citizenship and mocked her modeling background while discussing visa reforms.
“Since we’re talking about integrity,” Crockett said, “I’m confused why Republicans haven’t addressed the lack of integrity in how the president’s family got their visas. Melania — a model, and not a Naomi Campbell or Tyra Banks-type — received an EB-1 visa.”
The EB-1 visa, often dubbed the “Einstein visa,” is typically reserved for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like science, education, business, or the arts. Crockett questioned whether Melania met that standard.
“This visa is for people with proven, sustained success — Nobel laureates, Olympic medalists. Last I checked, the former First Lady doesn’t have any of those credentials,” Crockett added. “It doesn’t take an Einstein to see the math ain’t mathin’.”
Melania Trump, originally from Slovenia, entered the U.S. in the 1990s on a work visa and became a citizen in 2006 after marrying Donald Trump. Only five Slovenians received green cards through the EB-1 category in 2001, according to The Washington Post.
Defending Melania
During the same hearing, Alex Nowrasteh, Vice President for Economic and Social Policy Studies, offered a tongue-in-cheek defense:
“Not everyone could marry Donald Trump — that alone is an achievement,” he said.
Crockett laughed and responded, “You sure are right. I couldn’t have done it.”
Social Media Backlash
Crockett’s remarks sparked a swift response online, with critics calling her comments “disrespectful,” “jealous,” and “classless.”
“Melania came legally and became First Lady with grace,” one commenter posted.
Another added: “Crockett doesn’t speak five languages like Melania, so maybe she should sit this one out.”
Several users accused Crockett of mocking immigrants despite her party’s frequent emphasis on supporting them.
“Mocking Melania’s immigration story isn’t progressive,” one person wrote.
“It’s petty and mean-spirited.”
As of now, Crockett’s office has not responded to requests for comment.
