Troy Nehls

A Texas congressman gave Democrats a gift when he boasted he’s about to dine on lobster tails on ribeye steaks on July 4th while claiming most Americans “don’t work hard as I do,” critics said.

Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, was asked how he and his Republican colleagues in the House would convince their constituents the GOP is the party of affordability when they go back to their districts for the holiday.

“Affordability? What are you talking about?” Nehls told reporters. “I’m gonna go there tomorrow. I’m gonna get me a couple of big lobster tails. I’m gonna get me some nice rib eyes ... and we’re going to be enjoying the Fourth, celebrating 250 years, the birthday. We’re gonna be celebrating the greatest president of my lifetime, Donald J. Trump ...,” he said.

Nehls conceded that energy prices will experience “a little increase because of Iran” but claimed it will be “temporary.”

“I’m OK with the increase in fuel because you knew it was going to happen, obviously, with oil and the Strait and everything but it’s a temporary issue.”

Nehls was asked if the 60% of Americans who live paycheck to paycheck can afford lobster tails and ribeyes.

"Maybe not. Maybe the 60% of Americans don’t work as hard as I do, either," the Texas congressman said. “I don’t know.”

Democrats and Trump administration critics claimed Nehls shot the GOP in the foot with his remarks.

“Dems should turn this into an ad,” tweeted journalist Mehdi Hasan.

The Democratic National Committee posted a meme in response to Nehls:

Miami Herald journalist Julie K. Brown suggested Nehls was being tone deaf.