A progressive radio host drew widespread attention and significant online criticism after posting a photo of herself kissing the sneakers of Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX).
The image, shared by leftist radio host Stephanie Miller, prompted thousands of negative responses on social media and only a small number of supportive reactions.
Miller wrote, “Why, yes I DID kiss the sneakers of [Crockett] and I DO worship the ground she walks on!
“And she was LOVELY about it!”
Why, yes I DID kiss the sneakers of @JasmineForUS and I DO worship the ground she walks on! And she was LOVELY about it! 🤣 pic.twitter.com/cUl4K96dam
— Stephanie Miller (@StephMillerShow) November 9, 2025
The photo quickly circulated, raising questions about the increasingly performative nature of political activism and the line between public support and personal adulation.
Critics across the political spectrum noted the unusual display and its broader implications for how political figures are treated within certain ideological movements.
Crockett, a freshman Democrat who has gained national attention largely through viral committee exchanges, has developed a strong online following that frequently elevates her social-media moments over traditional legislative work.
The enthusiastic reaction she receives from supporters reflects a broader dynamic in modern politics in which public figures become symbols within ideological communities.
Observers note that this dynamic mirrors a trend within certain progressive circles, where political engagement can shift from policy-driven advocacy to symbolic and highly personalized demonstrations of support.
This trend has also been highlighted in the rise of other progressive officials, including New York’s Zohran Mamdani, who is known for sweeping policy demands and uncompromising rhetoric.
Both Crockett and Mamdani are viewed by some within the Democratic Party as representatives of its future ideological direction.
Their style of politics is rooted heavily in confrontational rhetoric and social-media visibility.
Their rise to prominence has generated internal debate about governing effectiveness and strategic priorities.
The response to Miller’s photo underscored concerns that highly symbolic or theatrical displays can overshadow substantive policy discussions.
When public attention focuses primarily on gestures of personal admiration toward political figures, critics argue, it may limit accountability and shift focus away from practical outcomes such as public safety, cost of living, and education.
The incident also reflects a broader challenge within political movements where strong online factions can discourage criticism, even from ideological allies.
That dynamic has at times led to silence from within the movement when performative moments overshadow substantive policy engagement.
As the reaction to the photo shows, exaggerated displays of personal devotion toward elected officials can complicate discussions about governance and the role of public servants, leaving voters expecting clarity on results rather than symbolic gestures.
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