Rep. Robert Garcia told a Crooked Media audience that Democrats “won’t forget” alleged GOP “crimes and grift,” adding, “Maybe it’s because I’m gay, but pettiness is a thing,” according to the Western Journal’s account of a Nov. 7 event and a clip posted by Crooked Media.
What he said
“Just because you’re Kimberly Guilfoyle, or you’re Kristi Noem, or you’re Pam Bondi, and you’re no longer in office, that doesn’t mean that we’re still not interested in accountability for all of your crimes and grift. We’re not going to forget. We can’t forget about these folks that are causing harm. I think, like — maybe it’s because I’m gay, but pettiness is a thing,” Garcia said, per the Western Journal, which cited video posted by Crooked Media on Nov. 7.
The setting
The remarks came at a Crooked Media conference held Nov. 5–7 and featuring liberal public figures, the Western Journal reported. The outlet described Crooked Media as the organization behind the podcast “Pod Save America.”
Post-election message
Following the election, Garcia posted “LAWYER UP.” on Nov. 4 from his official X account, according to the Western Journal.
Context and attribution
The Western Journal framed Garcia’s remarks as a rationale for “weaponizing government.” The outlet also stated Garcia has held elected office since 2009 and has served in Congress since 2022. It further said he is the top Democrat on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and is set to chair it in the 120th Congress.
