Staff Reports
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) enthusiastically stood by Sen. Katie Britt (R-AL) on Tuesday, batting away concerns about her recent controversial comments. McConnell, during his weekly press conference, dismissed any criticism of Britt, proclaiming he was “proud” of her and thought she did a “great job.” He refused to acknowledge the reports that the dramatic tale she shared was not linked to President Joe Biden’s presidency, firmly stating, “I have zero criticism of her performance.”
.@LeaderMcConnell defends @SenKatieBritt after State of the Union response is rebuked by sex trafficking victim https://t.co/nOO0EaOv3p https://t.co/nOO0EaOv3p
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) March 13, 2024
During her rebuttal to President Biden’s State of the Union address, Britt recounted a horrifying encounter with a woman at the U.S.-Mexico border who claimed to have endured relentless sexual abuse as part of a human trafficking operation run by cartels. However, investigations revealed that the woman had previously spoken out about the abuse occurring in Mexico during President George W. Bush’s administration, not Biden’s. Despite this discrepancy, Britt doubled down on her claims, asserting, “President Biden’s border crisis is a disgrace.”
The woman at the heart of the story, Karla Jacinto, came forward in a recent CNN interview, lambasting Britt for using her story in a misleading manner. An indignant Jacinto expressed her distrust of politicians, accusing them of seeking only a photo opportunity and an image boost. Meanwhile, Britt’s office adamantly defended her, brushing off the apparent discrepancies and standing by the senator’s portrayal of the story.
Spokesman Sean Ross released a statement from Britt’s office, pointing fingers at the Biden administration’s policies and emphasizing the harrowing hardships faced by migrants on their journey to the border. Despite the mounting scrutiny and even a parody on Saturday Night Live, Britt’s camp remains steadfast in their support, reiterating their belief in the righteousness of her message.
