A Texas state representative and congressional candidate, Jolanda Jones, has stirred controversy with her remarks regarding aggressive political tactics. In an interview with CNN’s Erin Burnett, Jones discussed how she plans to respond to attacks from opponents in her campaign for the open seat left by the late Sylvester Turner. Her comments, which included violent imagery, have drawn significant attention and criticism.
During the interview, Jones dismissed the well-known phrase from former First Lady Michelle Obama, “When they go low, we go high.” Instead, she proposed her own approach, stating, “If they go low, I’m going to the gutter.” Jones elaborated on her strategy, suggesting that traditional notions of fairness are ineffective in the current political landscape. She stated, “So if you hit me in my face, I’m not going to punch you back in your face. I’m going to go across your neck, because we can go back and forth fighting each other’s faces. You got to hit hard enough where they won’t come back.”
Jones also criticized former President Donald Trump, alleging that his tactics have transformed political discourse. She noted his influence on redistricting efforts in Texas and called for a retaliatory approach against Republican states. “If they’re going to try to wipe us out in Texas,” she said, “we need to wipe out every Republican in New York and California and Illinois.” This statement underscores her belief that aggressive action is necessary to protect the interests of her constituents.
Furthermore, Jones expressed her view that Trump is engaged in a conflict with American citizens, citing cuts to Medicaid and Medicare, as well as the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. “He is attacking everyone,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for Democrats to “hit back” against what she termed his war on America.
Her remarks have not gone unnoticed by political figures. Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, described Jones’s comments as “jarring” and “unacceptable,” urging Texas voters to reject her candidacy. Leavitt stated, “It should have no place in American politics,” reflecting the concerns many have about the increasing prevalence of violent rhetoric in political discourse.
In her previous interview with Axios, Jones highlighted her challenging upbringing, stating, “My brother was murdered, my aunt was murdered, my cousin was murdered. My dad blew his brains out.” She suggested that her experiences have shaped her understanding of the harsh realities of life and the necessity of fighting back against adversity.
Following her CNN appearance, Jones reaffirmed her stance on social media, writing, “I SAID WHAT I SAID — AND I MEANT IT!” This declaration emphasizes her commitment to her aggressive campaign strategy, which she believes is essential for representing the needs of her constituents.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Jones’s remarks contribute to an ongoing discussion about the implications of violent rhetoric in politics. With her candidacy for the congressional seat heating up, how voters respond to her comments will be critical in shaping the future of her campaign.
