Trump Calls Crockett’s Senate Bid A 'Gift' To Republicans; Race Draws National Spotlight

ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE — President Donald Trump on Tuesday dismissed Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s (D-Texas) entry into the Texas U.S. Senate contest as "a gift to Republicans," saying he doubts she can win a statewide race.

“She’s a low-IQ person. I can’t imagine she wins,” Trump told reporters en route to a speech in Pennsylvania. “Maybe she’ll get the Democratic nomination, but I think it’s a gift to Republicans. … I’ve watched her for the last two years. I can’t even believe she’s a politician, actually.”

Crockett announced Monday that she will run for the U.S. Senate seat held by Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) in next year’s election. In the Democratic primary she will face state Rep. James Talarico. On the Republican side, Cornyn is battling state Attorney General Ken Paxton for the GOP nomination.

Campaign Momentum and Controversies

The congresswoman’s national profile has risen over the past year as she has become an outspoken critic of Trump and other Republican leaders. Her campaign launch video included audio of Trump attacking her and referring to her as "low IQ," a clip her team has highlighted to underscore the national attention she has drawn.

At the same time, Crockett’s blunt rhetoric has generated controversy. She has faced backlash for harsh descriptions of GOP figures, including comments about Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and a derogatory nickname for Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair. Critics argue such language is unnecessarily personal, while supporters say it signals Crockett’s willingness to confront political opponents directly.

Reactions From Across the Aisle

Trump’s remarks echoed Sen. Cornyn’s privately expressed reaction. Speaking to Semafor after Crockett’s announcement, Cornyn said by way of admitting his pleasure,

"Am I hiding my glee? I’ll try to wipe the smile off my face. I would say it’s a gift."

The race for Cornyn’s seat is shaping up to be a high-profile contest, with competitive primaries on both sides and national scrutiny on candidates’ records and rhetoric ahead of the 2026 election cycle.