Kiggans criticized after echoing racist phrase about Jeffries

U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans, a Virginia Republican, faced criticism on Monday, May 12, 2026, after she agreed on air with a radio host who used a racially charged phrase about House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. The exchange occurred during an interview on “Richmond’s Morning News” with host Rich Herrera. The incident drew condemnation from Democrats and prompted Kiggans to issue a public clarification.

During the interview, Herrera said Jeffries should “get his cotton-picking hands off of Virginia.” Kiggans responded, “That’s right. Ditto. Yes, yes to that,” according to the clip circulating online. Jeffries is the highest-ranking Black lawmaker in Congress.

After the broadcast, Kiggans posted on X that she meant to endorse the broader point that Jeffries should not weigh into Virginia politics, not the phrase itself. “The radio host should not have used that language and I do not — and did not — condone it,” she wrote, adding that she was agreeing with the sentiment that Jeffries should “stay out of Virginia.”

Democratic critics said the explanation did not go far enough. Rep. Katherine Clark, the No. 2 House Democrat, called for Kiggans to resign. Jeffries’ spokesperson, Christie Stephenson, said Kiggans showed a “stunning failure of judgment and leadership.”

Radio clip spreads online as Democrats demand accountability

The controversy gained traction after the liberal opposition research group American Bridge posted the radio segment on X. The episode unfolded as national parties are closely watching a handful of competitive House districts ahead of November’s midterm elections.

Kiggans has been described as a vulnerable incumbent and is one of Democrats’ top targets. She represents a Virginia Beach-based district and is expected to face former Rep. Elaine Luria, a Democrat, in a competitive rematch. Luria defeated Kiggans in 2022, according to the source material.

GOP campaign arm defends Kiggans as race tightens

The House Republicans’ campaign arm defended Kiggans and criticized Democrats for what it called “performative outrage.” The comments added to an already heightened political focus on Virginia’s congressional races and the role of national leaders in state politics.

Further reactions from Kiggans’ campaign and her Democratic challengers could shape how the dispute plays out in the weeks ahead.