‘Cotton picking’: US lawmaker condemned for racist comment about Jeffries

US Representative Jen Kiggans is facing condemnation for her apparent endorsement of a racist comment made about House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. During a conservative radio interview on May 11, 2026, Kiggans responded "Ditto" and "Yes. Yes to that" when the host used the phrase "cotton-picking hands" in reference to Jeffries' involvement in Virginia redistricting. The term "cotton picking" is widely considered to have racist origins. Kiggans later claimed she was agreeing with the sentiment that Jeffries should not interfere in Virginia's redistricting, not condoning the language. Jeffries' office and other prominent Democrats have strongly criticized Kiggans, with some calling for her resignation.

Republican Congresswoman Jen Kiggans is facing calls for her resignation from Democrats after agreeing with a radio host's remark that House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries should keep his "cotton-picking hands off of Virginia." Kiggans stated she was agreeing with the sentiment that Jeffries, the first Black party leader in Congress, should not interfere in Virginia politics, and that she did not condone the host's language. The phrase "cotton-picking" is considered offensive due to its historical association with slavery. Democrats, including House Minority Whip Katherine Clark and California Governor Gavin Newsom, have criticized Kiggans's response as racist and demanded her resignation.