President Donald Trump is a racist. Yesterday, The Washington Post issued a bombshell report that during a meeting over the future of DACA with Congressional leaders, Trump purportedly made disparagingly racist remarks about immigrants from predominantly-black countries. "Why are we having all these people from shithole countries come here," the president allegedly asked. "Why do we need more Haitians," he also asked, according to people who were privy to the meeting. “Take them out.”
Trump denies he used such bigoted language, tweeting early this morning: "The language used by me at the DACA meeting was tough, but this was not the language used. What was really tough was the outlandish proposal made - a big setback for DACA!"
The president later added, "Never said anything derogatory about Haitians other than Haiti is, obviously, a very poor and troubled country. Never said “take them out.” Made up by Dems. I have a wonderful relationship with Haitians. Probably should record future meetings - unfortunately, no trust!"
The White House has not disputed the events, stating: “Certain Washington politicians choose to fight for foreign countries, but President Trump will always fight for the American people,” spokesman Raj Shah said. “. . . Like other nations that have merit-based immigration, President Trump is fighting for permanent solutions that make our country stronger by welcoming those who can contribute to our society, grow our economy and assimilate into our great nation.”
Another unnamed White House, official actually defended the president's remarks, telling CNN's Kaitlan Collins, "The President's 'shithole' remark is being received much differently inside of the White House than it is outside of it. Though this might enrage Washington, staffers predict the comment will resonate with his base, much like his attacks on NFL players who kneel during the National Anthem did not alienate it."
Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), who attended the White House meeting, confirmed the report on MSNBC: "BREAKING: Democrat Sen. Durbin, who was in meeting with Pres. Trump: "He said these hate-filled things." https://nbcnews.to/2CVBh8m"
The Haitian government rightfully slammed Trump in a statement. “These insulting and reprehensible statements in no way reflect the virtues of wisdom, restraint and discernment that must be cultivated by any high political authority.” Such a racist mindset “reflects a totally erroneous and racist view of the Haitian community and its contribution to the United States.”
CNN's Anderson Cooper issued an emotional response to the president's racially-motivated comments.
"Let me be clear.... the people of Haiti have been through more, withstood more, fought back against more injustice... than our President ever has" Anderson Cooper choked back tears as he reflected on his relationship with Haiti, and its people," said the tweet from his official Twitter account.
Cooper's reaction immediately went viral.
Don Lemon of CNN didn't hold back either: "@donlemon on President Trump: "He is a racist ... but it's more important to be strategic than outraged"
Lemon later added, “the president of the United States is racist. A lot of us already knew that.”
Comedian Patton Oswalt slammed the president and his racist comments in a tweet:In a week Trump will do/say something that'll make today's "shithole" comment seem quant. Does anyone remember "Mexicans are rapists," "bleeding out of her whatever" and "good people on both sides"? Happy 11th day of 2018, everyone!
Chelsea Clinton had this to say: "Mr. President, immigrants from El Salvador, Haiti and the 54 countries in Africa likely helped build your buildings. They’ve certainly helped build our country. cc @POTUS"
Congresswoman Mia Love (R-UT), a Haitian, responded with a powerful statement:
There can no longer be any doubt that the President of the United States, at his core, harbors racial animus. Sadly, it's what propelled him into office.
@iamcardib/X
