Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee released a statement to the public Monday evening after audio of her using profane language surfaced online over the weekend.
An anonymous source sent the audio recording to KPRC 2 Investigates. We did not immediately publish the audio in an attempt to verify the recording, which Sheila Jackson Lee and her team confirmed Monday evening.
Jackson Lee, who is running for Houston mayor, believes the audio, which surfaced amid early voting, was released by one of her political opponents.
“At heart, I am someone who tells it straight. I know that as much as that is a strength, it can sometimes be a challenge to balance. But when I fall short, I want the people I represent to know that it is because I’m standing up for them - not me. To anyone who has listened to this recording with concern, I am regretful and hope you will judge me not by something trotted out by a political opponent, that worked to exploit this, and backed by extreme Republican supporters on the very day that polls open, but from what I’ve delivered to Houstonians over my years of public service,” Jackson Lee’s statement read, in part.
Although it’s not exactly clear when the audio, which lasted about a minute and thirty seconds, was recorded, Jackson Lee could be heard using foul language and insulting two of her staff members.
“I don’t want you to do a God da** thing. I want you to have a f*****g brain,” Jackson Lee could be heard in the recording telling one of her staff members. “Nobody knows a got d**** thing in my office. I gave it to you. Your job was to get it on a calendar, imprint it on your brain or send me the information back.”
Jackson Lee was allegedly going off about some information she had not received from one of her employees, she continued in the recording insulting one of her employees whom she specified by name.
“He sitting up there like a fat a** stupid idiot talking about what the f*** he doesn’t know. Both of y’all are f*** ups,” Jackson Lee continued.
Read the full statement released by Jackson Lee regarding the audio:
“I want to convey to the people of Houston that I strongly believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and that includes my own staff. I know that I am not perfect. I recognize that in my zeal to do everything possible to deliver for my constituents I have in the past fallen short of my own standards and there is no excuse for that. I am passionate about serving my constituents. I want the best for all of them.
At heart, I am someone who tells it straight. I know that as much as that is a strength, it can sometimes be a challenge to balance. But when I fall short, I want the people I represent to know that it is because I’m standing up for them - not me. To anyone who has listened to this recording with concern, I am regretful and hope you will judge me not by something trotted out by a political opponent, that worked to exploit this, and backed by extreme Republican supporters on the very day that polls open, but from what I’ve delivered to Houstonians over my years of public service.
Many staff have worked in my office and many of them have gone on to bigger and better opportunities, and others as well have returned to work with me again. Interns in my office leave with actual constituent service and legislative experience. I want each of them to know that the work we accomplish would never be possible without their hard work and dedication. Working as a public servant is demanding, but it is my calling. I expect excellence at all times and I know that it is because of their commitment that I am able to fulfill my duties as an elected official. I will never forget the debt of gratitude I and so many others owe them.
Moving forward, I want the people of Houston to know that my vision for our city, as mayor, is unwavering. I am dedicated to addressing the pressing issues that our community faces, such as crime and public safety, education, healthcare, affordable housing, and economic and greater job development. I’m excited about the opportunities to secure more federal funds and developing public private partnerships for the city. I am committed to making Houston a better place for all of us, and the sooner we can refocus on the real issues we face instead of political attacks and stunts, the sooner we can achieve these goals. I look forward to uniting this very diverse city and recognize that our strength is in the work we will do together.”