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Democrats Demand Kiggans Resign from Maternity Caucus Over Racist Remark

5/13/2026

44 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Democrats say Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) is disqualified from the bipartisan Maternity Care Caucus she co-chairs because she echoed a radio host’s “cotton-picking hands” remark about House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY).
Jeffries spokesperson Christie Stephenson called the remark disgusting, vile and racist.
Minority Whip Katherine Clark, Governor Gavin Newsom and the Congressional Black Caucus demanded Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) step down.

History

Historical Context

Joe Wilson’s 2010 censure—approved 219-212 and backed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi—echoes a long House tradition of disciplining members, from the 1832 reprimand of Ohio’s National Republican for insulting the Speaker. Today, similar outbursts, such as Rep. Jen Kiggans’ slur, draw condemnation from leaders like Katherine Clark, showing formal rebuke remains a key tool for preserving congressional decorum.

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Story summary

Democrats say Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) is disqualified from the bipartisan Maternity Care Caucus she co-chairs because she echoed a radio host’s “cotton-picking hands” remark about House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY).
Jeffries spokesperson Christie Stephenson called the remark disgusting, vile and racist.
Minority Whip Katherine Clark, Governor Gavin Newsom and the Congressional Black Caucus demanded Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA) step down.

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