Former US President Donald Trump has ignited a firestorm of criticism after making a startling comment about Texas Governor Greg Abbott during a television interview that has since gone viral.
During his appearance on Fox News with host Pete Hegseth, Trump suggested the Republican governor could become "the next Black friend" in what many are calling a racially insensitive remark that has drawn widespread condemnation.
Celebrity Backlash and Social Media Fury
The controversial comment prompted immediate reaction from singer Erykah Badu, who publicly challenged Trump's statement. Meanwhile, social media platforms exploded with criticism from users who found the remark deeply problematic and indicative of racial tokenism.
Political analysts note this isn't the first time Trump has faced accusations of racial insensitivity, but the specific framing of his comment about Governor Abbott has struck a particular nerve across the political spectrum.
Broader Political Implications
The timing of these remarks comes during heightened political tensions in the United States, with many questioning how such comments might impact Republican outreach to minority communities.
Critics argue that the suggestion of collecting "Black friends" reduces complex racial relationships to political accessories, while supporters claim the remark has been taken out of context.
As the story continues to develop, both political figures and civil rights organisations are weighing in on what many see as a revealing moment in American political discourse.
