Controversy Over Claims of ‘Modern-Day Lynchings’ in America
Progressive lawmakers are facing backlash after controversial claims regarding ‘modern-day lynchings’ sparked debate on ‘The Big Weekend Show.’ Representative Ayanna Pressley, joined by 50 Democrats, called for a federal probe into numerous hanging deaths. However, officials have ruled most of these cases as suicides, with only one in Mississippi under homicide investigation.
An Ohio congresswoman, Shontel Brown, D-Ohio, faced significant online criticism. She suggested lynchings are rising in the U.S., a claim widely debunked. Her statement on X referenced an alarming increase in Black Americans found hanged, associating these incidents with historical lynching.
Fox News Digital reviewed cases after Pressley demanded federal investigation into every Black individual’s hanging death across the nation. Pressley and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., received backlash after discussing the letter, with their claims about lynchings challenged.
Last week’s review showed officials concluded several cases as suicides after thorough investigations.
Some cases in Georgia, North Carolina, and Florida have been ruled suicides. One case remains under investigation — the death of Tasia Fortune — treated as homicide after Black suspect Jarques Ratliff’s arrest.
Despite findings, Rep. Brown continued emphasizing historical intimidation by lynching tools.
Brown’s statements received widespread condemnation online, with some accusing her of exploiting racial tensions.
Actor Dean Cain considered her claims misleading. Others pointed out previous incidents, keeping the political narrative before elections.
Individuals have criticized Democrats for allegedly creating racial divides unnecessarily. Podcasters voiced concerns about these unfounded claims contributing to racial tensions.
Critics, including author Dan Friedman, challenged the narrative, suggesting these suicides, except one case, conflict with Brown’s claims.
Brown’s video attached to her post stated the importance of addressing such matters. Yet, many feel misinformation drives a divide when evidence contradicts the statements made by these lawmakers.
Despite public demand for clarification, Brown’s office did not respond to Fox News Digital’s inquiries.