News: Ralph Northam's Press Conference

Governor Northam Denies His Appearance in Racist Photos

By the Editors

Governor Ralph Northam (D) of Virginia announced at his recent press conference that neither costumed figure was in fact him, but admits that it does not excuse the photos appearing on his page. 

​This is a turn from yesterday's official statement where he admitted to being one of the costumed figures in the photo.

He did admit to, however, "darkening" his face for a dance contest where he was costumed as Michael Jackson in San Antonio, for which he regrets. He further called on the dark history of Virginia to explain the photos and mentioned the Governor's Mansion, the Capital Building, as well as many of Virginia's buildings and monuments were built off of that history. 

"My responsibility is to listen and to grow," said Northam as he reaffirmed his intentions of remaining as Virginia's governor. Northam expressed a desire to continue his role while listening and growing as a person. 

Many of the perspective and confirmed 2020 Democratic candidates as well as many of Virginia's primary news media have called for his resignation. Many have called Northam selfish for his actions and criticize the way he has handled the situation. Quail Bell will continue to follow this story as it unravels.