Al Sharpton criticized President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance for inviting Marine veteran Daniel Penny to their box at the Army-Navy football game, calling it an insulting and troubling gesture. Sharpton argued that Penny, who choked and killed an unarmed black man with mental health issues, is being portrayed as a hero. He expressed concern that this act sends a dangerous message, encouraging vigilantism and giving others the idea that they can take the law into their own hands.
Sharpton emphasized that the man Penny killed posed no physical threat and was simply acting erratically due to his mental health struggles. He questioned why someone responsible for such an act would be honored publicly, especially given Trump’s lack of response to incidents like the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. Sharpton said the message disrespects not just black Americans but all Americans and asked whether the reaction would be the same if the races were reversed.
Donald TrumpHe accused Trump of sending a racial signal through his actions, claiming it reflects a consistent pattern of insensitivity toward black communities. Sharpton pointed to Trump’s previous claims that black men would support him, contrasting that with the decision to spotlight Penny, whose actions resulted in the death of a black man. Sharpton argued that such decisions only widen racial divides and alienate black Americans.
Sharpton also criticized JD Vance for past remarks about black Haitians, including inflammatory comments accusing them of eating people’s pets in Ohio. He said those statements reveal a mindset that dehumanizes black people and aligns with the broader implications of Penny’s invitation. Sharpton claimed this pattern reflects a view of black individuals as “less than human,” further perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Sharpton warned that honoring someone like Penny, whose actions resulted in a tragic death, sends a troubling signal about racial dynamics and justice in the country. He urged Americans to reflect on the message being sent by decisions like this and to consider how they shape the perception of race and humanity in society.