Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, faced heavy backlash online after House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain accused her of cutting ahead of passengers in wheelchairs while boarding a Delta Air Lines flight Sunday afternoon at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
“SPOTTED: Jasmine Crockett with a taxpayer-funded police escort, cutting everyone in line — even making DISABLED people wait. Nothing to see here, just the next leader of the Democrats, abusing her power!” McClain posted on her campaign’s social media account, alongside photos of Crockett at the gate.
The images sparked outrage among conservatives, with social media users calling Crockett “entitled” and “evil.” The controversy centered on the perception that Crockett, accompanied by a police officer and a staffer, bypassed standard boarding procedures and disrespected passengers with mobility issues.
A source familiar with the incident told reporters that Crockett was the first passenger to board the flight, aside from crew members. The two individuals in wheelchairs were reportedly still waiting to board at the time.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, airlines are required to offer pre-boarding to passengers with disabilities who request assistance or additional time. Delta Air Lines' policy also allows certain groups to pre-board, including disabled passengers, active duty military, and Delta 360 Members, an invitation-only elite status tier.
There was no immediate clarification from Crockett’s office regarding her boarding status or why she had an escort. However, critics online claimed her behavior showed “abuse of privilege” and called for accountability.
The boarding flap adds to an already controversial stretch for Crockett, who has faced criticism in recent months for her outspoken style during congressional hearings and frequent media appearances.