Controversial Invitation
President Donald Trump’s decision to invite former New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor, a registered sex offender, to the White House has sparked considerable backlash.
Taylor attended an event at the White House on Thursday, which comes amid heightened scrutiny of Trump’s connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein, who was awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, died in a federal jail cell in 2019, an incident that has continued to raise concerns.
Pressure from Epstein Ties
The controversy is compounded by the criticism President Trump faces regarding his administration’s failure to release additional records related to Epstein, despite previous commitments to transparency. Trump has expressed frustration over ongoing inquiries into Epstein’s case, particularly as some of his supporters propagate conspiracy theories regarding the matter.
Details of Taylor’s History
Taylor’s prior legal troubles include a 2010 arrest for charges related to the sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl. He pleaded guilty in 2011 to misdemeanor sexual misconduct and was sentenced to six years of probation, as well as required to register as a sex offender. In 2021, he was arrested in Florida for failing to report a change in residence as a sex offender, a charge he later resolved. He was arrested again in July 2024 for a similar offense, but that case was closed shortly thereafter.
Event Highlights
During the executive order signing on Thursday, Trump announced the reestablishment of the Presidential Fitness Test aimed at American children and the revitalization of a national sports council. Alongside Taylor, professional athletes like golfer Bryson DeChambeau and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker were formally inducted into the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.
Social Media Backlash
Taylor’s presence at the event has drawn significant criticism online. Social media personality Brian Krassenstein condemned it, stating, “Trump literally had Lawrence Taylor, a registered sex offender who raped a 16-year-old, featured at the White House… Sickening!”
Reactions from Taylor and Trump
Speaking during the signing, Taylor expressed gratitude for being part of the initiative, stating, “I’m just proud to be on this team. I don’t know why, I don’t know what we’re supposed to be doing, but I’m here to serve and I’m here to serve you.”
Trump praised Taylor, saying, “Acknowledged to be the greatest defensive player in the history of the NFL, a friend of mine for a long time. Too long, right Lawrence?” Regarding his ties to Epstein, Trump claimed, “I don’t know really why, but I said, if he’s taken anybody from Mar-a-Lago… I didn’t like it. And we threw him out.”
Public Outcry
Notable public figures also weighed in on the matter. Julie Roginsky, a former Fox News contributor, remarked, “Lawrence Taylor is a registered sex offender who was arrested for sexually assaulting a young girl. Someone needs to ask MAGA why Trump hangs out with so many child predators.” MSNBC host Chris Hayes commented on the timing of the event, asserting, “On the day Virginia Giuffre’s family is speaking out about how survivors are treated like trash, here’s who’s in the White House.”
Looking Ahead
As the fallout continues, Trump is expected to face ongoing questions regarding the Epstein case and his relationship with Taylor.
This report incorporates information from The Associated Press.
