What's happened
Rep. Mike Lawler faces backlash after a photo surfaces showing him in a Michael Jackson costume with darkened skin. Lawler claims it was an homage, not blackface, as he campaigns for re-election in New York's 17th District against former Rep. Mondaire Jones.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The New York Times, Lawler stated, 'The ugly practice of blackface was the furthest thing from my mind,' emphasizing his intent to honor Jackson. However, The Independent highlights the historical implications of blackface, noting its offensive nature. Axios reports that Lawler's race is rated a 'toss-up,' indicating the potential impact of this controversy on his re-election efforts. The Daily Beast adds that Lawler's past attendance at Jackson's trial further complicates his narrative, suggesting a deeper connection to the pop star's controversial history.
How we got here
The controversy arose as Lawler, a first-term Republican, is in a tight race for re-election. The photo, taken in 2006, shows him dressed as Michael Jackson at a college party, which has reignited discussions about race and representation.
Common question
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What Happened with Mike Lawler's Blackface Controversy?
Rep. Mike Lawler is facing significant backlash after a photo from 2006 surfaced, showing him in a Michael Jackson costume with darkened skin. As he campaigns for re-election in New York's 17th District, this incident raises questions about its implications for his political future and the broader conversation about race and representation in politics.
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More on these topics
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Michael Vincent Lawler is an American politician serving as a member of the New York State Assembly from the 97th district in Rockland County.
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Michael Joseph Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer. Dubbed the "King of Pop", he is regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20th century and one of the greatest entertainers in the history of music.
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Mondaire Jones is an American attorney and politician from the state of New York. He is the Democratic nominee for New York's 17th congressional district in the 2020 election.