Yesterday, the Guardian published an article in which Trump Mahoning County Chair Kathy Miller made comments including that “I don’t think there was any racism until Obama got elected.” Following the article’s publication, Miller resigned her position. In response to Miller’s remarks and subsequent resignation, Dr. Carolyn Hurst, an Ohio doctor, clergywoman and member of People For the American Way’s African American Ministers in Action, released the following statement:  

“While I’m thankful that Kathy Miller has resigned and apologized for her reprehensible remarks, the incident speaks to the troubling rise in racism from Donald Trump’s campaign. Miller’s comments go hand-in-hand with other racist language that Trump and his allies use and uplift.

“It’s scary to imagine how much worse this could get for all Americans, especially those of color, if Donald Trump became president. This November, it’s up to Ohioans to reject bigotry, racism, and discrimination through the casting of their votes for one who works to unite us as Americans and not divide us.”

Trump and his campaign and companies have a long history of racism. As just a few examples: His companies engaged in racial discrimination, Trump delayed in condemning former KKK grand wizard David Duke, and Trump has repeatedly elevated white supremacists throughout his campaign.

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