WASHINGTON, DC: Comedian Dave Chappelle found himself at the center of a controversy after a viral selfie with Representatives Lauren Boebert (R-Colo) and Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla) emerged, dividing the Internet over the unexpected political alliance.
The photo, shared by Boebert on social media, captures the three smiling faces in the Capitol Rotunda. Boebert's caption, "Just three people who understand that there’s only two genders", ignited a social media storm.
Luna echoed the sentiment, tweeting her gratitude to Chappelle and expressing, “Thanks for all you do.” The encounter was not limited to Boebert and Luna, as Representative Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) was also filmed engaging in friendly banter with the 'Chappelle's Show' star.
Chappelle's presence in Congress was initially linked to a meeting with the Congressional Black Caucus, according to Punchbowl News. However, the comedian, a Washington, DC native, offered an alternative explanation when approached by a reporter, stating that he often hangs out on the hill to reconnect with old friends from the area.
Contrary to initial speculations, Chappelle's visit to the Capitol reportedly did not involve any official business or meetings. A representative for the comedian clarified that he was in town for the upcoming Kennedy Center Honors and an 'Art is Activism' workshop at a local public high school, debunking the notion of a political agenda.
Chappelle, known for his politically incorrect humor, has faced criticism throughout his career for making controversial jokes, particularly regarding issues related to the LGBTQ+ community. His recent comments during a performance in Boston, where he accused the US government of supporting Israel's "war crimes" against Palestinians, stirred further debate and led to some audience members walking out.
Dave Chappelle sparks controversy with Congressional selfie
The Internet was quick to react to this selfie. A user commented on X (formerly Twitter), "Homie jumped the shark a few years back with this MAGA heel turn."
Another claimed, "So Reps LAUREN BOEBERT and ANA PAULINA LUNA manage to grab a selfie with Dave Chappelle while he is in DC and then use that selfie for their own political gain — to falsely claim that he endorses their low IQ political positions."
A third tweeted, "Not to state the obvious, but he didn't need to pose for photos with them...he's gotta know he's gonna get cooked for that alone."
"I've seen no claim from either that he aligns with their political views. Not even one," read a tweet.
"The potential the joke that comes outs of this has," stated a user.
