A prominent MAGA influencer, Elijah Schaffer, is facing severe criticism after making racist remarks targeting Abraham George, the Indian-origin chairman of the Texas GOP. Schaffer mocked George's accent and implied that the Texas GOP, under George's leadership, is turning Texas into "Mumbai" and becoming a hub for H1B immigration fraud.
Schaffer posted, "The Texas GOP is lead by an Indian with an Indian accent. Now you know why Texas is turning into Mumbai and the center of H1B immigration fraud. Our own party is orchestrating it, it's not just the Democrats. Indians are loyal to their race & non Indian politicians are paid off,".
These remarks have sparked outrage across the political spectrum, with many condemning Schaffer's statements as racist and divisive. Critics argue that his comments perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to a climate of xenophobia and racial animosity.
Abraham George was elected chairman of the Texas GOP in 2024 after previously losing a Republican primary for Texas's 89th House district in 2023. Following the Texas GOP sharing a video of George discussing American rights, Schaffer made his controversial statements. George had stated in the video, "God gave you life. God gave you liberty, and God gives the duty to protect both".
Schaffer's remarks are not the first instance of racial controversy within the Texas GOP. In 2020, several Republican leaders in Texas counties shared racist posts on social media, prompting calls for resignation from top officials, including Governor Greg Abbott. One post juxtaposed a quote from Martin Luther King Jr. with a banana, a known racist trope. Other posts spread conspiracy theories, including one falsely claiming George Floyd's death was a staged event.
The current controversy highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the Republican Party in appealing to a diverse electorate. Some Texas GOP leaders have expressed concern that such incidents damage the party's image and hinder its ability to attract minority voters.
It remains to be seen what further action, if any, will be taken by the Texas GOP in response to Schaffer's remarks. The incident underscores the need for continued dialogue and efforts to combat racism and promote inclusivity within the party and in political discourse.
