When politics meets personal identity, sparks are bound to fly—and that’s exactly what happened in a recent congressional hearing involving Texas Representative Keith Self. Self, a 71-year-old Republican from Texas’s 3rd district, has been serving in Congress since 2023. With a net worth estimated at around $5 million (updated 2025), Self has had a long career, from serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army to becoming the Collin County Judge. But his latest headline isn’t about his military accolades or legislative efforts—it’s about a moment that left the political world buzzing.
The Incident That Stopped the Hearing
During a hearing, Rep. Self misgendered Rep. Sarah McBride, a Democrat from Delaware and the first openly transgender state senator in U.S. history. He introduced her as “Mr. McBride” and referred to her as “the congressman from Delaware.” Whether it was an intentional dig or an unfortunate mistake, the moment didn’t go unnoticed.
McBride, refusing to let it slide, responded with a pointed jab of her own, calling Self “Madam Chair.” The response was swift. Rep. Bill Keating (D-Mass.), the ranking member, immediately stepped in, rebuking Self. “Mr. Chairman, you are out of order,” Keating said, his voice carrying a firm tone. “Mr. Chairman, have you no decency?”
Instead of backtracking or apologizing, Self doubled down, stating, “We will continue this hearing.”
But Keating wasn’t having it. “You will not continue it with me unless you introduce a duly elected representative the right way,” he shot back.
The standoff ended when Self abruptly adjourned the hearing, leaving the room in tension as lawmakers walked out.
Why This Moment Matters
This incident isn’t just another example of political clashes; it represents the growing debate over respect, identity, and decorum in government. Misgendering a colleague—especially one who has made history in the LGBTQ+ community—isn’t just a small slip-up. It’s a statement, whether intentional or not, and it carries weight.
For some conservatives, Self’s refusal to acknowledge McBride’s gender identity may be seen as a stand for traditional values. For others, it’s a blatant show of disrespect and a refusal to recognize the evolving political and social landscape.
Regardless of where one stands on the issue, one thing is clear—this moment has ignited a conversation that’s far from over. Whether Keith Self will address or apologize for his words remains to be seen, but for now, his actions have ensured that his name will be tied to this controversy for the foreseeable future.
