Gayle King sparked fury when she commented on the lack of “people of color” at Donald Trump’s second inauguration on Monday.
The “CBS Mornings” host asked why there were not more people of color invited to President Trump’s swearing-in ceremony in Washington, DC.
“I have to say. I’m looking at this crowd. I do not see many people of color. Does anybody else besides me observe that?” King asked. “I’m fascinated by why that is?”
King’s colleague noted the inauguration was taking place on Martin Luther King Jr. Day – when Black people in America celebrate King’s birthday.
Former Fox News host Megyn Kelly criticized King’s comment, writing: “Gayle King on CBS is questioning why there aren’t more “ppl of color” at the inauguration. Of course,” she tweeted.
Others were quick to agree with the former conservative journalist’s comments.
Former President Barack Obama was the most prominent person of color in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol on Monday. He arrived alone without his wife Michelle Obama, who is feeling under the weather, according to reports.
Mrs. Obama shared a statement in honor of MLK Day on social media.
“Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of service always inspires me. This #MLKDay, I hope you’ll join me and @WhenWeAllVote in honoring Dr. King’s life and legacy by getting involved in your community,” she said.
“Whether you’re mentoring students at your local school or volunteering for a cause that matters to you, it all helps make a difference. Tell me how you’re giving back today in the comments.”
Also among the handful of people of color at the inauguration were Chicago Pastor Lorenzo Sewell, who is seen greeting Trump after the swearing-in ceremony.
NY Mayor Eric Adams attended the inauguration events.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris watched as Country singer Carrie Underwood performed.
Vice President JD Vance with his wife Usha Vance (who is Indian) and their three children before he was sworn in.
Vivek Ramaswamy and Kristi Noem applaud as Donald Trump is sworn in as 47th President of the US.
Former Texas state Rep. Scott Turner (left) was picked by Trump to be Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Also pictured are Secretary of Health and Human Services nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (center) and Google CEO Sundar Pichai (right).
(L-R): Supreme Court Justices Clarence Thomas, Brett Kavanaugh and U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts.
