Acrylics, Eyelashes, and Iconic Clapbacks: How Jasmine Crockett Became the Internet’s Favorite Politician

Congressional hearings aren’t usually associated with things like beauty commentary, viral catchphrases or remixes. But Rep. Jasmine Crockett has brought all three into mainstream political conversations. The Democratic and former public defender has attracted a substantial social media following through pointed questioning, memorable exchanges with fellow lawmakers, and a public image that includes dramatic eyelashes and long nails. Her videos have found circulation beyond traditional political news audiences, sometimes with her appearances becoming memes before a hearing has even concluded.

The attention has also inspired a larger conversation around how politicians communicate online and how a viral moment can both amplify and even overshadow their work and cause.

The Eyelashes Exchange That Became a Meme

Crockett’s most widely circulated confrontation occurred during a House Oversight Committee hearing on May 16, 2024, which concerned Attorney General Merrick Garland. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene commented on Crockett’s eyelashes, suggesting they were interfering with her ability to read. Then, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez objected to the remark, with the meeting then descending into a discourse around committee decorum.

Crockett followed by asking Chairman James Comer whether a hypothetical comment about someone’s “bleach-blonde, bad-built, butch body” would violate the same rules. The retort was widely accepted as a remark back towards Greene.