US Representative Jasmine Crockett is facing fierce backlash after honouring Chris Brown and Usher with Congressional Record recognitions during their R&B Tour stop in Texas.
Crockett joined the singers on stage at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Saturday, 12 September, where she celebrated their careers and contributions to music and entertainment. But while the moment was meant to honour two R&B heavyweights, Brown's history of domestic violence and Usher's past lawsuits quickly became the focus of criticism online.
Chris Brown & Usher's Congressional Recognition
Crockett, a Democratic representative for Texas, presented Brown and Usher with Congressional Record recognitions during the concert. These honour their decades-long careers and contributions to the music and entertainment industry.
The Congressional Record is the official record of proceedings and debates in the US Congress. A statement entered into the Record is therefore part of the official congressional record, but it is not equivalent to Congress passing legislation or formally endorsing every aspect of a person's life or career.
Crockett described the moment as a celebration of 'Black joy' and praised the artists on stage. The presentation was made alongside Texas state Rep Venton Jones and producer RoccStar.
Jasmine Crockett Faces Fierce Backlash
Jasmine Crockett, 45, has become one of the more recognisable Democratic voices in Congress since entering the US House in 2023. A former public defender and civil rights lawyer, she represents Texas's 30th Congressional District and has built a large following through her outspoken political style.
But her decision to recognise Brown has left some supporters asking a very different question: Why him?
Social media users were quick to point to Brown's history and argue that there are plenty of other Black artists who could have received the honour without the same baggage. One critic wrote: 'Honouring a known abuser is a CHOICE.' Another said: 'There's literally so many other deserving black artists.'
Others were even more blunt. 'Damn, Jasmine. I was rooting for you. So disappointing,' one person wrote, while another said Crockett had 'lost' her mind.
Some critics also questioned the timing, arguing that there are more important issues for a member of Congress to deal with than honouring two entertainers with troubled pasts.
Chris Brown's History With Rihanna
Chris Brown's history with Rihanna dates back to February 2009, when he assaulted his then-girlfriend shortly before the Grammy Awards. Brown later pleaded guilty to felony assault.
He was sentenced to five years of probation, 180 days of community labour and a year-long domestic violence programme. Brown also publicly apologised for the attack.
The incident has remained a major part of the public conversation around Brown's career. His continued success has repeatedly sparked debate over whether an artist's professional achievements should be separated from serious misconduct in their personal life.
Usher's Past Herpes Lawsuits
Usher's controversy is different but has also involved serious allegations.
In 2017, three people sued the singer, claiming that he had failed to disclose an alleged genital herpes infection before having sexual contact with them. The lawsuits included allegations of sexual battery, fraud and negligence.
However, the claims were never established as fact. Also, Usher has not publicly confirmed that he has herpes.
A Celebration Turns Controversial
These old issues resurfaced as Crockett's recognition of both singers spread online.
For Crockett, what was intended as a celebration of two major R&B careers has instead become a heated debate over who deserves an official congressional honour. Brown's 2009 guilty plea to felony assault involving Rihanna made his inclusion particularly controversial, while the past lawsuits and allegations involving Usher added another layer to the criticism.
The reaction also shows why celebrity honours can quickly become political flashpoints.
