Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett has caused widespread discussion with her recent comments distinguishing between committing crimes and being a criminal. The Democratic congresswoman, who previously worked as a public defender, appeared on the Getting Better podcast with Jonathan Van Ness to share her views on crime and criminal justice reform.
Crockett argued that people who commit crimes out of desperation should not always be considered criminals. She emphasized that her experience working with indigent clients in Texas has shaped her understanding of what leads people to criminal behavior. According to Crockett, this insight directly informs her legislative work as she seeks to address root causes rather than simply punish offenders.
