Republican Representative Dan Crenshaw of Texas is facing renewed calls to resign after NBC News released a video showing text messages in which he discussed a pending federal investigation involving a former staffer.
The messages, exchanged between January and March of 2026, reference a possible ethics inquiry and were sent to a former aide who had been accused of misconduct. The release follows earlier criticism of Crenshaw’s handling of separate controversies, and the House Ethics Committee has not yet opened a formal investigation.
What the Left Is Saying
Democratic leaders and progressive organizations argue the texts suggest an attempt to influence or suppress an ethics probe. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee said, "The American people deserve a representative who upholds the highest ethical standards, and these messages raise serious concerns about Mr. Crenshaw’s judgment." The Congressional Progressive Caucus issued a statement urging Crenshaw to step down while the matter is examined.
What the Right Is Saying
Some Republican officials contend that the texts do not constitute wrongdoing and caution against a rush to judgment. Texas Governor Greg Abbott remarked, "We should allow the appropriate congressional processes to run their course before drawing conclusions." House Republican leadership echoed this view, noting that no formal complaint has been filed and emphasizing the presumption of innocence.
What the Numbers Show
A Quinnipiac University poll released on February 20, 2026 found that 55% of Texas voters said the congressman should resign, while 30% said they would wait for an official investigation and 15% were undecided. The NBC video captured 42 text messages exchanged over a six‑week period. The House Ethics Committee’s public docket lists no pending cases against Crenshaw as of the article’s publication date.
The Bottom Line
The controversy adds pressure on Crenshaw ahead of the 2026 primary election in his district. If the House Ethics Committee decides to open an inquiry, it could trigger further calls for resignation and affect his standing within the GOP. Observers will watch upcoming statements from the committee and any additional evidence that may emerge.