Rev. Al Sharpton is embroiled in controversy once again, as allegations of a “pay-to-play” scheme at his National Action Network nonprofit organization have come to light. According to reports, Sharpton’s group received $500,000 in donations from Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign in the days leading up to an October 20 interview on MSNBC.
Despite the seemingly conflicting interests, Sharpton failed to disclose the payments to his network or the viewers before or after the interview. It is also unclear whether he disclosed the donations to his bosses at MSNBC.
Sharpton, an outspoken supporter of the Democratic Party and a strong ally of Harris, has been criticized for his alleged breach of ethics. Network insiders suggest that the episode may have a lasting impact on his standing at the network, stating that such conduct “can’t be acceptable.”
Sharpton has been dogged by scandal for years, with some notable incidents including:
* His tax troubles, with unfiled tax returns leading to fines and civil liabilities in the millions
* His role in the infamous Tawana Brawley rape hoax, where he acted as an outspoken advocate for the fabricated claim of a 15-year-old Black girl alleging to have been kidnapped and raped by a group of White men
* Antisemitic remarks made throughout his career, including defense of anti-Semitic language, support for anti-Semitic boycotts, and an inability to disavow overtly anti-Semitic activity and speech.
The incidents in question are just some of the controversies that Sharpton has faced over the decades. The latest episode only adds to the existing tensions and allegations surrounding Sharpton and his National Action Network.