Chilli (TLC) Addresses Trump Donations and Michelle Obama Conspiracy Theory
TLC’s Chilli, born Rozonda Thomas, has addressed recent controversies surrounding political donations and a mistakenly shared conspiracy theory about Michelle Obama. The singer insisted she is “not MAGA” and issued an apology for accidentally reposting a video promoting a false narrative about the former First Lady.
Political Donations Under Scrutiny
The controversy began when The Independent reported that Chilli had donated over $1,000 to Republican-linked fundraisers and Donald Trump’s reelection efforts in 2024, including a $340 contribution to the Trump National Committee JFC. This revelation sparked immediate backlash from fans and raised questions about the singer’s political affiliations.
Accidental Repost of Conspiracy Theory
Adding to the situation, fans noticed that Chilli’s social media account had re-shared a video about Michelle Obama popular among conspiracy theorists. In a video statement posted on Instagram, Chilli explained that the repost was a complete accident.
“Let me say this first: I have the utmost respect and admiration for Michelle Obama and I would never say or do anything that is disrespectful to her or to any woman. I had no clue that this repost had happened until I started getting phone calls and text messages. I immediately went to my page to see what was going on,” Chilli explained in the video. She further stated her lack of technical expertise contributed to the error, explaining the close proximity of buttons on the platform led to an unintentional repost.
Support for the Obamas
Chilli was quick to emphasize her long-standing support for the Obamas. “That is not my character. I have supported the Obamas. I gave to the campaign, both runs, voted twice for him, and supported the organization that Michelle had in the schools for exercise for the kids. I would never do anything that’s harmful or hateful to anybody. I’m not wired like that.”
Donations to Veterans Organizations?
Regarding the political donations, Chilli stated she believed she was contributing to organizations benefiting military veterans but admitted she “did not read the fine print.” However, she didn’t elaborate on how she mistakenly donated to Republican-backed WinRed and the Trump National Committee JFC. Understanding the importance of due diligence in charitable giving, resources like Charity Navigator can help ensure donations reach intended recipients.
“I Am Not MAGA”
In a written statement, Chilli unequivocally declared, “I want to be clear: I am not MAGA and do not support any of the many policies that are causing great harm to the American people.” She acknowledged her mistake in not carefully reviewing the donation details, believing she was supporting causes against human trafficking and for veterans – issues she deeply cares about, given her father’s military service and her love for children. “I have learned a valuable lesson and ask for grace as I navigate this,” she concluded.
This controversy comes shortly after TLC announced their “It’s Iconic” tour alongside Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue, promising a summer filled with nostalgic hits.
