Sen. Tim Scott Criticizes Democrat Jasmine Crockett’s Senate Bid as Sign of National Leftward Shift
AUSTIN, Texas — Republican Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina sharply criticized Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s recent announcement to run for the U.S. Senate in Texas, framing it as a clear indication of the Democratic Party’s ongoing shift toward far-left policies nationwide. In an exclusive interview, Scott, who chairs the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), said Crockett’s campaign launch exposes what he described as the Democrats’ embrace of “a radical left agenda that focuses on rhetoric, not reality.”
Crockett, a two-term House member known for her progressive stances and vocal opposition to former President Donald Trump and Republican policies, formally filed paperwork for her 2026 Senate bid on Monday. Her entry into the race adds a new dynamic to what is already a fiercely contested contest in Texas, where incumbent Republican Sen. John Cornyn faces primary challenges from state Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt.
Scott pointed to Crockett’s past comments comparing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Democratic-led cities to “slave patrols” in the antebellum South as emblematic of the kind of rhetoric he finds “disgusting” and “repugnant.” He argued that such statements reflect a broader Democratic Party philosophy increasingly aligned with socialism and far-left ideology.
Highlighting Crockett’s recent praise of New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani—a democratic socialist whom Crockett said “could do a Masterclass for all Democrats on communication”—Scott suggested that the Texas Democrat’s vision for her party is rooted in progressive politics that many voters reject. Republicans have frequently spotlighted Mamdani as a symbol of the Democratic Party’s leftward trajectory, aiming to portray the party as out of touch with mainstream America.
The Texas Senate race is among several high-profile contests that could determine control of the Senate in the 2026 midterm elections. With the GOP currently holding a slim majority, both parties are investing heavily in key battleground states. Crockett’s campaign announcement followed the withdrawal of former Rep. Colin Allred, another Democrat who had been vying for the Senate nomination.
Scott’s comments come amid heightened partisan tensions over immigration enforcement, economic policy, and social issues. His critique of Crockett’s rhetoric on ICE aligns with broader Republican efforts to frame Democrats as soft on border security and aligned with radical elements. The Department of Homeland Security oversees ICE, which has been a flashpoint in national debates over immigration policy.
Crockett has cultivated a significant social media presence, frequently engaging in verbal sparring with Trump and other Republicans. Her campaign is expected to energize progressive voters in Texas, a state that has seen shifting demographics and political realignments in recent years.
The NRSC under Scott’s leadership has been focused on defending vulnerable Republican seats and capitalizing on divisions within the Democratic Party. His remarks underscore the strategic importance Republicans place on framing the 2026 midterms as a referendum on Democratic policies they characterize as extreme.
As the race unfolds, voters in Texas will weigh competing visions for the state and the nation, with immigration, economic growth, and social justice likely to dominate the discourse. The outcome could have significant implications for the balance of power in the Senate and the direction of national policy in the coming years.
For more on the 2026 Senate races and party strategies, visit the U.S. Senate official site and the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
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