Official announcements from the Justice Department or credible news outlets

FBI Probes Racist 'Pick Cotton' Texts Sent Nationwide After Election

Nov 7, 2024, 10:38 PM

Following the recent presidential election, individuals across multiple states in the United States have reported receiving racist text messages containing offensive and threatening language. The messages, which began circulating before and after Election Day, include statements such as "Greetings! You have been selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation" and are sometimes signed "A Trump supporter." They also include references to white supremacist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan. Reports of these messages have emerged from various locations, including West Michigan, Detroit, Georgia, Texas, and the Upper Darby School District in Pennsylvania, where students have been warned about receiving such derogatory texts. Black college students nationwide have been particularly targeted. The FBI has acknowledged awareness of these offensive and racist text messages, stating that it is operating a 24/7 national election command post through at least November 9 and is in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities regarding the matter. Local law enforcement agencies, such as the Clemson Police Department, are also aware of similar racially motivated communications circulating within their communities. The issue has raised concerns about safety and civil rights violations, prompting affected individuals to report these incidents to authorities.