Comedian Matt Rogers has issued an apology for urging listeners not to donate to Texas Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett's U.S. Senate campaign during a recent podcast episode. The remarks, made on 'Las Culturistas' with co-host Bowen Yang, drew online backlash, prompting Rogers to express regret on Instagram. He emphasized his respect for Crockett while committing to more thoughtful commentary.
Matt Rogers, known for his comedy work and co-hosting the podcast 'Las Culturistas' with Bowen Yang, faced criticism after comments made on a recent episode. During the discussion on political views and the 2028 presidential election, Rogers advised against supporting Crockett's Senate bid in Texas. "Don't waste your money sending to Jasmine Crockett. Do not do it. Don’t do it, you’re going to waste your money," he said, looking directly into the camera. Yang responded, "I must agree."
Rogers elaborated that Crockett was unlikely to win, referencing Beto O’Rourke's previous unsuccessful run. "She’s not going to win a Senate seat in Texas, you guys. If Beto O’Rourke couldn’t do it, Jasmine Crockett is not going to do it," he stated. He clarified it was not personal, noting, "It’s nothing against her, it’s just that she is a politician, in that she is very well-defined already, and it’s my opinion that we’re going to need someone who is less defined at this moment that rises up." Rogers also expressed concerns about the Democratic Party nominating an "establishment California Democrat," which he believed would lead to failure.
The backlash prompted Rogers to post an apology on his Instagram Story on Saturday, January 10, 2026. "Hey everybody. I hear the response and I am taking every bit of it to heart, I promise," he wrote. "Transparency and candor matter to me, especially on the podcast. I’m a very progressive person who cares deeply about winning these elections, but my phrasing was not right. I will be more thoughtful! I really do promise."
He added, "I have great respect and admiration for Rep. Crockett, and I regret that my words suggested otherwise. I just want us to win and I will be better at finding ways to help."
Yang also addressed the issue by reposting Rogers' statement on his Instagram Story, writing, "Should not have cursorily weighed in on this. Understanding the platform and will use it more responsibly." The incident highlights tensions within progressive circles over strategies for future elections.
