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Politics

Outrage Erupts Over Halloween Parade Float Depicting Kamala Harris in Disturbing Scene

Saturday 02 November 2024 - 11:44

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A Halloween parade in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, has sparked significant backlash after a float appeared to portray Vice President Kamala Harris tied to a golf cart, being driven by a man wearing a mask of former President Donald Trump. The incident occurred during an event organized by the local volunteer fire department in the small town, located approximately 45 miles southeast of Pittsburgh.

In footage from the parade, a woman dressed in a red suit is seen walking slowly behind the golf cart, seemingly restrained. The vehicle also featured two men dressed as Secret Service agents and another man resembling a sniper, with what appeared to be a replica assault rifle mounted on the hood. A Trump sign was prominently displayed on the front of the golf cart.

Mayor Diane Bailey of Mount Pleasant expressed her shock, stating that the float resembled a "lynching simulation." Community member Josh Huff echoed her sentiments, describing the display as deeply offensive. The volunteer fire department later issued an apology on social media, clarifying that they do not endorse the values represented by those involved in the float and acknowledging the hurt it caused within the community.

Michelle Milan McFall, chair of the Westmoreland County Democratic Party, condemned the display as "vile" and expressed concern over its implications in a climate where political animosity is escalating. Bill Bretz, chair of the Westmoreland County Republican Committee, also denounced the float's portrayal of political violence, emphasizing that such actions should not be tolerated in any form.

Daylon A. Davis, president of Pittsburgh’s NAACP branch, criticized the float as "harmful" and racially insensitive. He urged local leaders to establish clearer guidelines to prevent similar incidents in future events. The fire department acknowledged their traditional role in providing safety and traffic control during parades and committed to reviewing their planning processes to avert such occurrences.

This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding political expression and representation in public forums, raising questions about community standards and accountability in festive celebrations.