Tyler Cherry, recently promoted to Associate Communications Director in the Biden administration, issued an apology for past controversial social media posts that have garnered criticism from conservatives. Screenshots of tweets from 2014 and 2015 resurfaced, revealing Cherry’s strong criticisms of law enforcement, calls for the abolishment of ICE, and support for anti-Israel organizations. Facing mounting pressure, Cherry stated that his past social media posts do not reflect his current views and affirmed his support for the Biden administration’s agenda, particularly focusing on climate and environmental policies. Notably, the controversial tweets are no longer visible on Cherry’s current Twitter account, as any posts predating April 2022 have been deleted.
Cherry’s professional background includes three years of service at the Interior Department under Secretary Deb Haaland before his recent promotion to the White House. He is known for his LGBTQ rights activism and involvement in Washington, D.C.’s creative community. Conservative commentators have questioned Cherry’s fitness for his role in the Biden administration, with some arguing that his past tweets reflect a broader ideological stance within the administration. Others view the posts as youthful indiscretions that should not overshadow Cherry’s professional qualifications. Despite the backlash, the Biden administration has expressed support for Cherry, with White House senior deputy press secretary Andrew Bates stating, “We’re very proud to have Tyler on the team.”
The resurfaced tweets include Cherry’s commentary on domestic and international issues, such as his criticism of law enforcement and advocacy for Palestine during the 2014 Gaza War. In one tweet from 2015, Cherry allegedly expressed concerns about racial biases within the police system, connecting it to historical slave patrols and lynch mobs. During the same period, Cherry reportedly showed support for Palestine, stating, “Cheersing in bars to ending the occupation of Palestine — no shame and f— your glares #ISupportGaza #FreePalestine.” Some critics have questioned Cherry’s current views and his decision to delete the controversial tweets from his account.
In response to the controversy, Cherry took to social media to address the situation, emphasizing that his past social media posts do not reflect his current beliefs. While some users have questioned Cherry’s apology and asked for clarity on which views have changed, others have supported the Biden administration’s decision to keep him on the team. Despite the criticism and controversy surrounding his past tweets, Cherry’s promotion to Associate Communications Director in the White House reflects the administration’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity in its staff. Moving forward, Cherry’s focus remains on supporting the Biden administration’s agenda, particularly in the areas of climate and environmental policies.
