A close House race in New York was recently embroiled in controversy when photos surfaced of the incumbent Republican congressman in blackface as part of a Halloween costume from years ago.
Rep. Michael Lawler, R-N.Y., who is white, was pictured dressed as pop sensation Michael Jackson, complete with bronzer to darken his face in an October 2006 photo. Lawler acknowledged the authenticity of the photo and issued an apology to anyone offended, clarifying that his intention was not to portray blackface.
