On the same day Chris Brown expressed gratitude for his congressional recognition, the man who signed it issued an apology. Texas State Rep. Venton Jones released a statement following days of fiery backlash over the honor, particularly against Jasmine Crockett. The U.S. rep joined Venton on stage in Arlington, Texas, to present Chris and Usher with the recognition. Tuesday, Breezy thanked Crockett and Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, while Venton Jones apologized to his constituents, including women and survivors of abuse, for any harm the recognition may have caused.
RELATED: Chris Brown Thanks Jasmine Crockett & Dallas Mayor Following Congressional Record Recognition Amid Divided Reactions
Venton Jones Apologizes To DV & Sexual Abuse Survivors
The Texas State Rep. spoke out on social media about his participation in honoring Chris Brown and Usher. On Instagram, it appears Venton shared his written statement nearly 12 hours after Breezy boasted about the recognition on Instagram. The singer showed a close-up of the plaque presented to him by Jasmine Crockett and Jones, which he also signed. “This means so much to me,” Chris Brown said in his caption.
On that Arlington stage, Venton appeared to be all smiles as Jasmine thanked the R&B singers for their contributions to music and culture. But in his statement on Tuesday, Jones appeared to carry a serious tone. He admitted to spending the last few days taking in conversations, concerns and feedback about the recognition for Brown specifically. As we’ve previously reported, the honor sparked a deep divide online, landing Crockett especially in the hot seat over Breezy’s history of violent behavior.
“…I want to acknowledge the women, the Black women, whom my actions have hurt. In moments like these, I think it’s important to be specific and just as loud with an apology as our original actions were. I apologize,” Venton Jones wrote. Adding, “You are the backbone of our community, our families and our democracy. Far too often, we continue to ask that you carry the heaviest burdens, lead our fights and navigate spaces where your safety and your lived realities are sidelined. My decision was another moment that perpetuated this.”
In the continued statement, Venton Jones shared that he’s a survivor of both sexual violence and domestic abuse whose work has centered on women and survivors. He admitted that with his experience, more is required of him.
“My work and experience do not absolve me of accountability; and to be another person who, yet again, asks for your forgiveness is another layer on top,” Jones said.
Additionally, he spoke directly to the constituents of House District 100, whom he represents, and every survivor of domestic and sexual violence. “I extend my sincerest apology for the hurt, frustration and pain my choices caused. Your trust and support are invaluable to me and I never take lightly how my decisions impact you,” Jones said.
Texas State Rep Explains Intention Behind Recognition
In the last two paragraphs of his statement, Venton Jones clarified what his and Jasmine Crockett’s goals were regarding the congressional recognition. He viewed it as giving Usher and Chris Brown acknowledgment for their musical careers. Also, the Texas State Rep saw “the opportunity to reach thousands of everyday people, voters and non-voters, exactly where they are.” Moreover, they saw it as a chance to share the “critical importance of turning out to vote” for the midterm elections in November.
“In that same breath, that message was not communicated to you. Thus, the impact extended beyond its original intent. The work of mobilizing our people for the 2026 Midterm General Election, Tuesday, November 3, continues,” Venton Jones wrote.
Also, he promised to continue carrying out the recent conversations and working tirelessly on his constituents’ behalf. Meanwhile, in his caption, Jones wrote: “I have been listening and reflecting. I see you and hear you. Please accept my remarks in response. I remain transparent and committed to House District 100, the Dallas community, and Texas, and will allow the work of the Office to continue reflecting that. Texans, please remember the last day to register to vote is Monday, October 5th.”
