U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat from Dallas, took the stage at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on Monday and delivered a powerful critique of former President Donald Trump, labeling him a “career criminal.” Crockett’s remarks contrasted Trump’s record with Vice President Kamala Harris’ career as a prosecutor and former California attorney general, drawing laughter and applause from the audience.

Crockett’s Rise in the Democratic Party

Crockett, the first Texan in Congress to speak on the DNC main stage, has quickly emerged as a prominent voice within the Democratic Party. Despite being a freshman member of the U.S. House, she has gained recognition for her sharp messaging and willingness to confront Republicans in public committee hearings. Her rapid ascent began during her term in the Texas House, where she became a key spokesperson for the 2021 state House Democratic quorum break, which aimed to block Republican-led voting legislation. Before her political career, Crockett served as a public defense attorney specializing in civil rights law.

In her speech, Crockett highlighted the stark differences between Harris and Trump. “One candidate worked at McDonald’s while she was in college at an HBCU. The other was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and helped his daddy in the family business: housing discrimination,” she said, drawing laughter from the crowd. “She became a career prosecutor, while he became a career criminal, with 34 felonies, two impeachments, and one porn star to prove it.” Crockett’s pointed comparison resonated with the audience, as she emphasized Harris’ qualifications: “Kamala Harris has a résumé. Donald Trump has a rap sheet.”

Harris’ Support and Compassionate Leadership

Crockett also shared a personal story about Harris’ support when she first arrived in Congress. She recounted how, during their first meeting at the Vice President’s residence, Harris consoled her during a difficult time. “When I first got to Congress, I wasn’t sure I made the right decision,” Crockett admitted. “She saw right through me. She saw the distress. I immediately began crying.” Harris, she recalled, wiped her tears and reassured her that she was exactly where she was meant to be.

Crockett’s relationship with Harris has had a profound impact on her career, as she went on to gain national attention for her viral moments, particularly when pushing back against Republicans like U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Crockett subtly referenced one of her most famous exchanges with Greene, where she indirectly criticized Greene’s appearance during a committee hearing. Her ability to stand her ground and speak truth to power has made her a rising star in the Democratic Party.

Texans Unite for Progressive Change

Crockett’s speech was part of a broader showcase of Texas Democrats at the DNC, including Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Democratic abortion rights activist Amanda Zurawski. Hidalgo praised Harris for her leadership during crises like Hurricane Beryl and her commitment to climate policy, while Zurawski shared her harrowing experience with Texas’ restrictive abortion laws, urging Americans to vote as if lives depend on it, “because they do.”

The convention also featured appearances by major Democratic figures, including President Joe Biden, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Clinton, who was the 2016 Democratic nominee for president, highlighted the progress women have made in breaking barriers, noting that Harris is poised to continue that legacy.