Recently, freshman Congressman Greg Casar (D-TX) undertook a 'thirst strike' to advocate for federal heat safety protections for workers. The demonstration, which lasted approximately nine hours, quickly became a subject of ridicule on social media platforms like Twitter.

Casar tweeted about his experience, stating he felt "more energized than ever" to achieve his goal. However, many online commentators downplayed the difficulty of his protest, with some questioning the accuracy of his claims. Several pointed out that abstaining from food and water for eight or nine hours is commonplace for many Americans, whether intentionally, like skipping a meal, or unintentionally, due to work schedules.

UNITED STATES - JULY 25: Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas,  speaks during a Vigil and Thirst Strike for Workers' Rights on the House steps of the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, July 25, 2023. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

Congressman Greg Casar's short-lived protest drew comparisons to everyday occurrences like skipping lunch or sleeping through the night. Some social media users humorously compared their own daily routines to Casar's demonstration.

A photo of Casar seemingly wearing a heart rate monitor and appearing distressed also drew criticism and mockery, with some commentators suggesting it was overly dramatic. Conservative commentator Matt Walsh criticized the photo and claimed the protest was based on a false premise, arguing that no law banning water breaks for workers exists in Texas.

WASHINGTON - APRIL 20: Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas, speaks to a reporter on the House steps. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)