Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) took direct aim at former First Lady Melania Trump, igniting a furious backlash from Donald Trump himself—this time on his favorite battleground, Truth Social.
During a heated congressional hearing focused on visa policies, Crockett criticized what she called the hypocrisy and selective enforcement of U.S. immigration laws under the Trump administration. But what really sparked headlines was her bold invocation of Melania Trump’s own immigration history, questioning the legitimacy of the former First Lady’s “Einstein visa”—a rare EB-1 visa intended for individuals with extraordinary ability in fields such as science, art, and education.
“Melania, a model—not a Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, or Cindy Crawford-level model—was given an EB-1 visa. You’re supposed to have a Nobel Peace Prize or an Olympic medal for that,” Crockett said. “Last time I checked, she had none of those accolades. It doesn’t take an Einstein to know the math ain’t mathin’ here.”
Crockett’s blistering remarks came amid broader criticism of Trump-era immigration policies, which she claimed disproportionately targeted lawful visa holders and immigrants contributing to the U.S. economy, education system, and health care sector. She accused Republicans of weaponizing immigration laws while overlooking the questionable circumstances around the former First Lady’s visa approval.
Crockett’s statements sent Trump into a tailspin, leading to a Truth Social tirade in which he lashed out not only at her but also at a handful of progressive lawmakers.
“Democrats should nominate low-IQ Jasmine Crockett for president,” Trump posted. “Add AOC as VP and Zoran Mandani as NYC Mayor. Welcome to communist America. We’re screwed.”
The post, riddled with insults, quickly drew backlash from both lawmakers and political commentators. But Crockett, known for her unflinching rhetoric and fearless advocacy, isn’t backing down.
A Scandal Reignited
The EB-1 “Einstein visa” has long been a source of curiosity and quiet controversy when it comes to Melania Trump. Reserved for individuals of “extraordinary ability,” the visa requires proof of international acclaim—such as published scholarly articles, major industry awards, or leading roles in distinguished organizations.
“What extraordinary ability did she demonstrate?” Crockett questioned. “We’re talking about restoring integrity to the visa process, but no one wants to discuss the visas that helped Trump’s own family skip the line.”
Melania was granted the EB-1 visa in 2001. At the time, she was a working model with few widely recognized accolades. Critics have questioned whether her relationship with Donald Trump influenced the approval—a concern resurfacing now amid ongoing Republican efforts to restrict immigration pathways for others.
The Broader Hearing
Beyond Melania, Crockett took aim at Trump’s broader immigration record, calling it a “hostile takeover of America’s visa system”. She highlighted how visa bans and enforcement measures hurt hospitals, universities, and small businesses.
“Visas like the J and M are vital for education, research, and our economy,” she said. “These attacks on lawful visa holders jeopardize our national security more than they protect it.”
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) added weight to Crockett’s criticisms, slamming Trump’s “xenophobic travel bans” and inconsistent enforcement measures. Raskin noted the devastating impacts of delayed visa approvals on hospitals, universities, and immigrant families.
“President Trump turned our visa system into a terrain of caprice and selective punishment,” Raskin said. “It’s authoritarian and anti-American.”
Trump’s Thin Skin
Trump’s angry response to Crockett isn’t his first Truth Social outburst—but it may be one of his most revealing. Rather than refute her claims with facts, the former president resorted to personal attacks and political fearmongering.
Crockett, meanwhile, is being hailed by supporters for daring to go where few lawmakers have—directly challenging the former First Lady’s immigration history to highlight the double standards in the system.
Political analyst Dr. Renee Alexander summed it up best: “When Jasmine Crockett invoked Melania’s visa, she exposed the hypocrisy of Trump’s entire immigration narrative. And predictably, Trump couldn’t handle it.”
As Trump continues his online tirades, Crockett and her allies are doubling down on the need for immigration reform rooted in fairness—not favoritism. And with her sharp critiques and rising profile, some are already jokingly backing #CrockettForPresident—a jab Trump may have accidentally encouraged himself.
