Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam has apologized for the newly uncovered racist photo in his 1984 Eastern Virginia Medical School yearbook. But, despite calls from even some of his fellow Democrats, he said he's not resigning. He followed up that message with a video, so he could speak "directly" to Virginians.
In it, he tells citizens that the photo "does not reflect" who he is today.
My fellow Virginians, earlier today I released a statement apologizing for behavior in my past that falls far short of the standard you set for me when you elected me to be your governor. I believe you deserve to hear directly from me. pic.twitter.com/1rSw1oxfrX
— Ralph Northam (@GovernorVA) February 2, 2019
"That photo and the racist and offensive attitudes it represents, does not reflect that person I am today," Northam says.
"I am deeply sorry," he said. "I cannot change the decisions I made nor can I undo the harm my behavior caused then and today. But I accept responsibility for my past actions and I am ready to do the hard work of regaining your trust."
Northam had already been having an awful week. On Wednesday, he defended Del. Kathy Tran's extreme abortion bill before he made some shocking comments about what course of action to take if babies survive abortions. In some cases, he suggested, there would be no action. The pro-life community was and is outraged. Yet, Northam pushed back and accused pro-lifers of being the ones to throw around "disgusting" accusations. He also said he didn't regret his comments.
