President Trump has decided to weigh in about the homophobic attack suffered by Empire star Jussie Smollett.
As Blavity has reported, Smollett was attacked in Chicago early Tuesday morning by two unknown men; they reportedly shouted homophobic slurs at the actor, yelled “this is MAGA country” while beating him, poured a chemical on him and left him with a noose around his neck.
The Hill reports the president was asked about the brutal beating by White House reporters Thursday.
“I’ve seen it, last night,” Trump said. "I think that’s horrible. It doesn’t get worse as far as I’m concerned.”
NEW: Pres. Trump on alleged racist and homophobic attack against "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett: "It was horrible. I've seen it, last night. I think that's horrible. It doesn't get worse, as far as I'm concerned." https://t.co/vds7CBwc0T
pic.twitter.com/aVIa7p0kUN— ABC News (@ABC) January 31, 2019
Trump did not comment on claims the attackers were supporters of his and did not offer Smollett any apology. He also did not comment on whether his rhetoric might have inspired the attack.
Deadline reports Smollett is recovering from his physical injuries quickly and is expected to perform as scheduled at a show in Los Angeles Saturday.
As Blavity reported, the investigation into the attack continues; the FBI has taken the lead after it was revealed Smollett received a threatening letter ahead of the assault.
After initially struggling to find any useful area security footage, Chicago police have uncovered a tape they believe may have captured the attackers. The two men who appear in the footage are now considered persons of interest, and a hunt is underway to discover their identities and locations.
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