Backlash Against Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang's Remarks on Rep. Jasmine Crockett

In a recent episode of the podcast *Las Culturistas*, co-hosts Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang faced significant backlash after making remarks that undermined Texas Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett's Senate campaign. During the discussion, Rogers advised listeners against donating to Crockett's campaign, stating, "Anytime a politician is making it about themselves, I'm already done. Don't waste your money sending to Jasmine Crockett. Do not do it." Yang concurred, saying, "I must agree." This commentary, which was part of a broader discussion on Democratic party strategies for the upcoming 2028 presidential election, drew criticism for its dismissive tone towards a Black female candidate.

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Following the backlash, Rogers took to Instagram to address the criticism, acknowledging that his phrasing was inappropriate. He stated, "I hear the response and I am taking every bit of it to heart, I promise... I have great respect and admiration for Rep. Crockett, and I regret that my words suggested otherwise." Yang also shared Rogers' statement, adding that he should not have "cursorily weighed in on this" and pledged to use his platform more responsibly.

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Rogers elaborated on his views during the podcast, suggesting that Crockett's established political identity might hinder her chances in the Senate race. He compared her candidacy unfavorably to that of Beto O'Rourke, stating, "If Beto O'Rourke couldn't do it, Jasmine Crockett is not going to do it." He emphasized the need for a candidate who is "less defined" to emerge in the current political climate.

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The comments made by Rogers and Yang were met with widespread criticism on social media, with many users pointing out the inappropriateness of their remarks, particularly given their status as non-Texans and non-political pundits. Critics highlighted the potential implications of undermining a Black woman candidate in a political landscape that already faces challenges regarding representation.

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Rogers expressed his commitment to being more thoughtful in his commentary, stating, "Transparency and candor matter to me, especially on the podcast." He reiterated his progressive values and desire to support successful Democratic campaigns. Yang's response echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for responsible engagement with their audience.

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As the political landscape evolves, the fallout from this incident may influence how public figures engage with political discourse, particularly regarding candidates from marginalized communities. The response from Crockett's team remains unreported, leaving an open question about how she will address the controversy surrounding the remarks made by Rogers and Yang.

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• “Any time a politician is making it too obviously about themselves, I’m already done. And don’t waste your money sending to Jasmine Crockett. Do not do it. Don’t do it, you’re going to waste your money.” — Matt Rogers, Co-host of *Las Culturistas*

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• “I must agree” — Bowen Yang, Co-host of *Las Culturistas*

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• “I hear the response and I am taking every bit of it to heart, I promise.” — Matt Rogers

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• “should not have cursorily weighed in on this. understanding the platform and will use it more responsibly.” — Bowen Yang

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