Senator Katie Britt, a Republican from Alabama, faced criticism for allegedly fabricating a story about a sex trafficking victim in her response to President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address. While Biden’s speech was praised for its energy and vigor, some Republicans felt it was overly politicized. Britt, a rising star in the GOP, received mixed reviews for her rebuttal, with some praising her attacks on the president while others found her delivery lacking. Former President Donald Trump commended Britt on Truth Social, calling her a contrast to a “very Disturbed” Biden.
Accusations surfaced that Britt’s story of a woman trafficked from Mexico to the U.S. at age 12 was false. Journalist Jonathan M. Katz presented evidence suggesting that the woman, Karla Jacinto Romero, was trafficked entirely within Mexico, not near the U.S. border as Britt claimed. Despite this, Britt’s spokesperson stood by the story, blaming Biden’s border policies for enabling cartels and increasing trafficking.
Critics on social media, including conservative figures, condemned Britt for spreading misinformation and accused her of lying. The response from Britt’s office to these allegations was labeled a “non-denial denial” by some. The controversy surrounding Britt’s remarks highlighted the divide in political discourse and the impact of false narratives in shaping public opinion. Newsweek is committed to uncovering the truth and fostering dialogue in an increasingly polarized society.
