NY Congressman Lawler Faces Backlash Over Past Blackface Photo

Rep. Michael Lawler apologizes for wearing blackface as a Michael Jackson fan at a 2006 college party amid a tight re-election race.

Rep. Michael Lawler, a Republican from New York, was photographed in blackface dressed as Michael Jackson at a college Halloween party in 2006.
Lawler has apologized, stating his costume was meant as a tribute to Jackson, whom he admired as a 'super fan.'
The controversy arises as Lawler campaigns for re-election in a competitive district against former Democratic Rep. Mondaire Jones.
Blackface has a long and controversial history, often associated with racist minstrel shows, and remains a cultural taboo.
Lawler's situation is compared to past incidents involving public figures like Ralph Northam and Justin Trudeau, who also faced backlash for similar actions.