During the interview, Crockett argued that Trump’s own inflammatory language has contributed to a culture of political violence. She cited past statements by Trump, including joking about shooting someone and encouraging physical aggression at rallies, as evidence of his role in normalizing such behavior. Crockett insisted that while her Hitler comparison was strong, it was not a direct call to violence.

This incident highlights a broader trend among some Democrats who, critics argue, are unwilling to lower the temperature of political discourse. For years, prominent figures on the left have portrayed Trump and Republicans as existential threats to democracy, often using dehumanizing language. This rhetorical style, critics warn, contributes to division and potentially incites violence.

Past comments by figures like President Joe Biden—who once joked about fighting Trump behind a gym—add to this atmosphere. Critics argue that this framing of Republicans as not just political opponents but as threats to humanity can push impressionable individuals toward extremism. They note that this trend has persisted despite actual violent incidents, including attempts on Trump’s life.