FBI Probes Racist 'Pick Cotton' Texts Sent to Black Americans Nationwide After Election

Nov 8, 2024, 12:04 AM

Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, are investigating a wave of racist text messages sent anonymously to Black individuals across multiple states in the aftermath of the 2024 election. The messages, which arrived on phones a day after Election Day, reference slavery and instruct recipients to 'pick cotton' at the nearest plantation, with some invoking threats involving the Ku Klux Klan. Reports have emerged from states including Alabama, California, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Georgia, Michigan, Texas, Maryland, Louisiana, South Arkansas, and others. Among those affected are students from middle school to college level, including at Montevallo High School in Alabama and the Upper Darby School District in Pennsylvania, as well as residents in Clemson, South Carolina, and the Detroit area. The Clemson City Police Department described the messages as 'deplorable' and 'racially motivated,' advising residents to report them immediately. The FBI acknowledged the messages, stating they are 'aware of the offensive and racist text messages sent to individuals around the country and are in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities on the matter.' Authorities are urging recipients to report any such threats as they continue their investigation.