In late December 2025, several Republican lawmakers shared messages on social media to commemorate Kwanzaa, a holiday with origins rooted in controversial beliefs. Among those acknowledging the celebration were New York Rep. Mike Lawler and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, who praised the week-long event that has Pan-African connections.
“As Kwanzaa begins, I extend my wishes for a season filled with reflection, unity, and purpose as we welcome the new year. May peace and prosperity touch you and your loved ones,” Lawler expressed on December 26th via his government account on X.
His post garnered over 73,000 views, along with 441 comments, but only around 50 likes, reflecting a disconnect with his audience. Some comments directed criticism at Lawler’s post, which seemed to receive a greater reactions than the original message.
Earlier in December, Lawler was one of the few House Republicans to vote against a proposed bill aimed at criminalizing gender reassignment procedures nationwide. He also diverged from the majority by endorsing a petition for a vote on extending Obamacare subsidies, an initiative favored by Democrats.
Representing a district in upstate New York, Lawler is a top target for Democrats in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, following a narrow victory in the last presidential race.
Meanwhile, Gov. DeWine, who oversees a state that supported Trump by a significant margin, also issued a pro-Kwanzaa statement. His social media message described the holiday as “fun and meaningful,” yet it received more criticism than likes, similar to Lawler’s responses.
Despite being Roman Catholics, neither Lawler nor DeWine acknowledged the significance of December 26th as part of the Christmas season on their social media accounts.
Additionally, other Republican groups in New York and New Jersey also issued supportive messages for Kwanzaa, encouraging community bonding through African American cultural traditions.
New Jersey Senate Republicans expressed their well-wishes, reflecting on the guiding principles of Kwanzaa. There’s some irony, however, as these principles link back to a notorious radical group from the 1970s.
The Manhattan Republican Party also recognized Kwanzaa in their social media posts. Curiously, many Republicans who endorsed the holiday in previous years did not do so in 2025, raising questions about consistency in support.
Kwanzaa was founded in 1966 by Maulana Ndabezitha Karenga, who had a history of involvement in black supremacist activities. He was convicted in 1971 for committing violent acts against members of his organization.
