Jasmine Crockett’s undisclosed marijuana business interests are raising eyebrows in Congress, highlighting potential conflicts with her legislative advocacy.
Story Highlights
- Jasmine Crockett’s financial interests in the marijuana industry coincide with her legislative efforts for cannabis decriminalization.
- Discrepancies in financial disclosures during her congressional run raise questions about transparency.
- Her past legal career involved defending clients in marijuana cases, intersecting with her current political pursuits.
Crockett’s Marijuana Business Ventures
Jasmine Crockett, a Democratic representative from Texas, has emerged as a vocal advocate for marijuana decriminalization while maintaining financial stakes in the cannabis industry. Financial disclosures revealed her investments in Black Diamond Investments, a company that attempted to secure licenses for marijuana dispensaries in Ohio. These investments coincide with her sponsorship of federal marijuana decriminalization legislation, suggesting potential conflicts of interest that warrant scrutiny.
Legal and Political Background
Crockett’s legal career began in class action defense, later shifting to public defense work in Texarkana, Texas. There, she gained experience in cases involving discriminatory prosecutions of Black defendants, particularly those related to marijuana charges. This background has informed her legislative focus on social justice and cannabis policy reform. Elected to the Texas House in 2020, Crockett quickly became a prominent figure, advocating for various marijuana-related bills in her first term.
Crockett’s rise in politics was marked by her participation in the 2020 George Floyd protests, which helped solidify her reputation as a community advocate. Her legislative achievements include securing $50 million for Fair Park in South Dallas, showcasing her ability to work across the aisle to benefit her constituents.
Financial Disclosure Controversies
While serving as a Texas state legislator in 2021, Crockett owned stocks in numerous companies, including marijuana firms, oil and gas giants, and pharmaceutical companies. However, these holdings were not reported during her congressional campaign in 2022, despite federal requirements for disclosure of stocks exceeding $1,000 in value. This discrepancy has raised questions about her compliance with financial transparency standards.
As of her latest Congressional financial disclosure, it remains unclear whether Crockett still holds her original stocks or if they were disposed of before her run for Congress. Transparency in financial interests is crucial for public trust, particularly when legislative advocacy intersects with personal business pursuits.
Sources:
Inside Jasmine Crockett’s Secret Stock Portfolio
Jasmine Crockett: Making History a Term at a Time
How a Marijuana Case Fuelled Jasmine Crockett’s Rise
Democratic Congresswoman Calls Out GOP Colleague’s Marijuana Arrest
Inside Jasmine Crockett’s Secret Stock Portfolio and Failed Attempts
