Former President Barack Obama has refrained from addressing the controversy surrounding Harvey Weinstein, the Hollywood producer and prominent Democratic contributor who recently faced allegations of s**ual harassment spanning three decades.
Amid criticism from Republicans and Twitter users demanding a response, some have highlighted a notable link between the former president and Weinstein: Malia Obama, his daughter, interned for Weinstein shortly before the scandal emerged.
Reportedly, 19-year-old Malia secured an internship at the Weinstein Company following her father’s departure from office earlier this year.
Her role in the New York City office went beyond menial tasks, with TMZ noting that she was actively involved in the production/development department, reviewing scripts and participating in decision-making processes concerning projects forwarded to Weinstein executives.
The revelation of Malia Obama’s internship has garnered renewed attention following a detailed investigation by The New York Times, which exposed Weinstein’s payments to silence at least eight women accusing him of s**ual misconduct—ranging from unwelcome advances to promises of career advancement in exchange.
Notably, Frank Rich, an executive producer and writer, questioned why exemplary parents like the Obamas allowed their daughter to work under such circumstances.
In response to the Times’ exposé, the Weinstein Company promptly terminated Weinstein’s employment, citing newly surfaced information regarding his misconduct.
This development marked a significant shift as Weinstein, a known Democratic supporter, faced widespread condemnation, prompting Democratic beneficiaries of his donations, including Senators Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker, to pledge equivalent charitable contributions in recompense.
Weinstein’s ties with the Obamas run deep, with his contributions to Barack Obama’s campaign dating back to earlier years.
In a gesture of appreciation, Michelle Obama publicly lauded Weinstein during a career-related event in November 2013, acknowledging his support and influence in their endeavors.
Despite mounting scrutiny, the office representing Barack and Michelle Obama declined to respond to Newsweek’s inquiries regarding Malia Obama’s internship within the Weinstein Company.
As the controversy surrounding Weinstein continues to unfold, political figures and celebrities have weighed in, with Corey Lewandowski critiquing the “Harvey Weinstein Democrats” for purported double standards and Keith Olbermann calling for a broader reassessment of contributions from alleged harassers within various spheres.
