Renowned rapper and entrepreneur 50 Cent has found himself at the center of a social media storm following the release of a provocative photo featuring him alongside controversial Republican congresswoman Lauren Boebert. The image, taken during his visit to the White House, has stirred significant debate and backlash, given Boebert's contentious political stances and past behaviors.
During his trip to Washington, DC, 50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, mingled with both Republicans and Democrats. However, it was his picture with Boebert that particularly caught the public's attention. In the photo, the G-Unit mogul can be seen standing in an office with his arm around the Colorado politician's waist, accompanied by a caption praising her: "Lauren Boebert, Colorado Republican making the White House look good," followed by a flirty winky-face emoji.
The photo quickly sparked a wave of criticism on social media. Many users expressed their disapproval of 50 Cent associating with Boebert, who has been known for her endorsement of QAnon conspiracy theories, opposition to LGBTQ+ rights, and inflammatory remarks about Muslims. One user commented, "Why anyone would want to associate themselves with this type of a woman is beyond me," garnering over 10,000 likes. Another questioned, "But why would you even take a picture with this embarrassment to Congress?"
Some critics accused the rapper of being a "sell out," suggesting that his wealth places him in the top 1% and therefore, he is unaffected by the policies Boebert supports. A Colorado resident remarked, "As a person who lives in Colorado, I disapprove of this message. Especially cause she's KKK affiliated but you do you 50. You rich anyway and don't have to worry about us people of ethnicity living in Colorado."
50 Cent responded to the backlash by referencing Boebert's infamous incident at the musical "Beetlejuice," where she and her date were ejected for inappropriate behavior. "Wait, wait, guys I took pictures with everyone and all you seem to care about is Lauren. What did she do in a dark theater that hasn't been done, my God," he said, as reported by HipHopDX. He humorously added, "Hey, I don't have chlamydia by the way. LOL."
Despite the uproar, 50 Cent did not limit his interactions to Republicans. He also posted photos with several notable Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi, Joyce Beatty of Ohio, Troy Carter from Louisiana, and Nikema Williams from Georgia. These interactions were part of his broader agenda in Washington.
The rapper was in town for the Congressional Black Caucus, where he aimed to address issues surrounding Black ownership in the alcoholic spirits industry. Accompanied by prominent attorney Ben Crump, 50 Cent planned to discuss allegations that Suntory Global Spirits had embezzled millions of dollars from his Sire Spirits brand due to unpaid invoices. His presence in Washington was not only about mingling with political figures but also advocating for greater financial equity and business opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.