Representative Mike Lawler, a rising Republican standout from New York, wore blackface for a Halloween costume years ago. He has claimed it was meant as an homage to Michael Jackson, his musical idol.
The images depicting Mr. Lawler in blackface during a college Halloween party raise significant questions about the appropriateness of such costumes, especially given his current political ambitions.
Mr. Lawler acknowledged the photos' authenticity and expressed that his intent was to honor Michael Jackson, dismissing any connection to the offensive connotations of blackface.
As the controversy surfaces, it could have implications for Mr. Lawler's upcoming re-election campaign against Mondaire Jones, emphasizing the sensitivity surrounding race and representation in politics.
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