This was just plain rude!
Texas Democrat Rep. Jasmine Crockett is facing renewed scrutiny after allegations surfaced that a national reporter was removed from one of her Senate campaign events in Lubbock.
The controversy began when Elaine Godfrey, a staff writer for The Atlantic, claimed she was escorted out of a Crockett rally by security personnel after being labeled negatively by members of the campaign team.
The incident has sparked debate over press access, campaign transparency, and whether candidates seeking higher office can withstand media scrutiny — even from outlets traditionally viewed as left-leaning.
What Happened at the Lubbock Campaign Event?
According to Godfrey’s published account, she attended Crockett’s Senate campaign rally in Lubbock and spent approximately an hour interviewing attendees and observing the event.
She wrote that a campaign staff member later approached her, confirmed her identity, and informed her that she was no longer welcome.
Godfrey alleges that a message shown to her described her as:
- “Elaine from Atlantic”
- “White girl with a hat and notepad”
- A “top-notch hater” who would “spin” the story
She further claimed she was escorted out by armed security and left outside the event location.
The Atlantic reporter characterized the experience as being “thrown out” of the rally.
Crockett Denies the Allegation
Rep. Crockett has pushed back strongly against the claims.
In comments to CBS journalist Shawna Mizelle, Crockett stated there was “no evidence” that the reporter had been removed. She referred to the situation as “silly season” and suggested that there may have been confusion involving a journalist with a “history of being less than truthful.”
Godfrey responded publicly that she has never been sued by Crockett and has no such legal history with the congresswoman.
The conflicting accounts have fueled online reactions across the political spectrum.
Social Media Reaction and Political Fallout
Political commentators, journalists, and voters quickly weighed in on social media.
Some observers questioned whether removing a reporter — particularly from a publication often seen as ideologically aligned with Democrats — sends the wrong message ahead of a statewide campaign.
Others raised broader concerns about:
- Campaign professionalism
- Handling of critical media coverage
- Readiness for a competitive Texas Senate race
Critics argued that statewide elections require candidates to engage with both friendly and adversarial press outlets.
Supporters, however, suggested the situation may have been mischaracterized.
Previous Tensions Between Crockett and The Atlantic
This is not the first reported friction between Crockett and Godfrey.
Earlier this year, Godfrey authored a profile of the Texas lawmaker that reportedly led to disagreements over the inclusion of comments from other House Democrats.
According to the reporter, Crockett expressed frustration over the content and objected to certain material being published.
The profile was ultimately released.
What This Means for the Texas Senate Race
As the Texas Senate race gains momentum, moments like this can carry outsized political impact.
For many older voters — particularly those who prioritize free speech, accountability, and transparency — disputes involving press access can raise red flags.
Questions now facing the campaign include:
- How will this controversy affect independent voters?
- Will it energize critics?
- Can the campaign move past the narrative?
In today’s political climate, even brief incidents can shape public perception for months.
Why This Story Matters
Media access disputes are more than political drama — they touch on fundamental principles about open elections, fair coverage, and leadership under pressure.
With Texas poised to be a major battleground state, every campaign decision may come under heightened scrutiny.
As voters evaluate candidates for higher office, how they handle criticism could prove just as important as their policy positions.
