The Republican Party of Kentucky is investigating a “vile and reprehensible” social media post by Hardin County Republican Party Chair Bobbie Coleman.
The now-deleted post showed an artificial intelligence video of the faces of former President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle imposed onto the bodies of apes.
Several other Democratic politicians, including former Vice President Kamala Harris, California Gov. Gavin Newson, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, were also depicted as jungle animals.
“The Republican Party of Kentucky condemns hate in all its forms. The post is vile and reprehensible, and is directly adverse to all that we stand for as a party and a nation. We are actively investigating the matter and will take the harshest action available to us against those involved.
We remain committed to the values of Lincoln and advancing liberty and prosperity for every American.”
Coleman said the post was “intended to celebrate President Trump’s successful policy achievements by depicting him as a ‘Lion King.’” Coleman added that she “did not consider the underlying meaning” the video may have had.
“I apologize for sharing the video and for amplifying offensive imagery of former President Obama. As someone who does not engage with racist tropes, I did not consider the underlying meaning that this video may have had. I am not racist and any suggestion to the contrary does not reflect my values or character,” Coleman stated.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
