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Rep. Mike Lawler Apologizes for 2006 Blackface Costume, Calls It "Sincerest Form of Flattery"

Oct 3, 2024, 10:45 PM

Photographs have emerged showing Representative Mike Lawler, a Republican from New York, wearing blackface as part of a Michael Jackson Halloween costume during his college years in 2006. The images, obtained by The New York Times, depict a 20-year-old Lawler dressed as the late pop star. In response, Lawler issued a statement apologizing for the costume, saying, "I am a student of history and for anyone who takes offense to the photo, I am sorry." He also described the costume as "the sincerest form of flattery." Lawler is scheduled to discuss the matter further in an interview with CNN's Kaitlan Collins at 9 p.m. ET. The revelation comes as Lawler is engaged in a tight reelection campaign that could influence control of the House.