The allegations against Harvey Weinstein have widened. More celebrities are now speaking out and claiming abuse by the film producer.
Donald Trump Jr. recently criticized Michelle Obama about her friendship with Weinstein. She had said that Weinstein was a good man.
Since then allegations have become more and more prominent in the news. The allegations have caused the Obamas to issue a statement on the matter.
Barack Obama recently issued a statement on behalf of his family. The daughter of the Obamas had interned for Weinstein at one point.
The close relationship between them and Weinstein has dealt a blow to them.
Obamas Statement
Obama said “Michelle and I have been disgusted by the recent reports about Harvey Weinstein. Any man who demeans and degrades women in such fashion needs to be condemned and held accountable, regardless of wealth or status.”
He continued by saying “we should celebrate the courage of women who have come forward to tell these painful stories. And we all need to build a culture — including by empowering our girls and teaching our boys decency and respect — so we can make such behavior less prevalent in the future.”
Weinstein has also raised millions of dollars for the Democrats. The former President attended many of his functions.
Relationship Ended
The comments by Barack Obama signal the end of what they considered a great friendship. It is impossible for the Obamas to continue any sort of affiliation with Weinstein.
Michelle Obama once considered Weinstein a great man. Her thought of him have changed significantly. It is hard when you hear that someone you spoke highly of does such things.
Worse is the thought of your own child working for such a person.
The Obamas aren’t the only ones affected. Many Democrats have felt the pressure as well. That is because of the significant funding that came from Weinstein. Harvey Weinstein was one of the Democrats largest donors.
Many Democrats have been pressured by Republicans to give back any money to Weinstein. Some have done just that.
Hillary Clinton received large donations from Weinstein. When the allegations first came out she was slow to respond.
She said recently that she was “shocked and appalled” at the allegations.
It seems that many were caught by surprise. The Democrats maybe hurt by the loss of a heavy donor. Seem none more so than the Obamas.
The Obamas were very close to Weinstein. These allegations would certainly hurt in more ways than one.
The biggest hurt would probably be the trust that they placed in Weinstein. It is unlikely to hurt the Obamas legacy, but the relationship is another thing.