Feinstein snaps at Cruz's 'lecture' on the Constitution: 'I'm not a sixth grader'

During a hearing on gun control legislation Thursday, junior Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) drew the hackles of Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), who snapped, "I'm not a sixth grader" after he tried to "lecture" her about the U.S. Constitution.

Cruz actually recited portions of the Bill of Rights to Feinsten, who authored the legislation they were discussing, and asked her whether she believes all of what he'd just read authorizes a bill banning military-style assault weapons.

"Let me just make a couple of points in response," she said. "One, I'm not a sixth grader. Senator, I've been on this committee for 20 years. I was a mayor for nine years. I walked in, I saw people shot. I've looked at dead bodies that have been shot with these weapons. I've seen the bullets that implode. In Sandy Hook, youngsters were dismembered. Look, there are other weapons. I'm not a lawyer, but after 20 years I've been up close and personal to the Constitution. I have great respect for it."

The California Democrat continued: "It's fine you want to lecture me on the constitution. I appreciate it. Just know I've been here for a long time. I've passed on a number of bills. I've studied the constitution myself. I am reasonably well educated, and I thank you for the lecture."

She later apologized by saying that Cruz had "sort of got my dander up," according to Talking Points Memo.

This video is from C-SPAN, aired Thursday, March 14, 2013, snipped by Talking Points Memo.