Former SC Election Leader Apologizes for Gorilla Comment About First Lady

The South Carolina NAACP called a news conference Wednesday to demand a proper apology from Rusty DePass, former chairman of the state Election Commission and former chairman of the Richland County Republican Party, whose Internet posting suggested a gorilla that escaped from the Columbia zoo was an ancestor of first lady Michelle Obama.

DePass offered an apology soon after the comment got state and national attention when it was posted on a local political blog, FITS News. But since DePass said he was sorry if he had offended anyone, state NAACP Conference of Branches Dr. Lonnie Randolph said that was not a "proper" apology.

DePass's original posting about the gorilla escape was, "I'm sure it's just one of Michelle's ancestors... probably harmless." It has since been removed from Facebook.

When DePass heard that the NAACP was holding a news conference, he called Dr. Randolph and asked if he could speak at it.

At the news conference, DePass read this apology:

"I am here today for one purpose, and that is to apologize in such a way that there can be no misunderstanding. When I was asked about this on Friday, I apologized for it.

I am truly sorry for any offense that I have caused. My remark was clearly inappropriate and I apologize for writing it. Since that time, I have written a letter of apology to Mrs. Obama and I have given Lonnie a copy of that letter, though I have made no effort to make it public.

My comment was offensive and a flippant remark made without thinking. It was wrong. It was foolish and I deeply regret it and any pain it has produced. I do not want to compound my indefensible words other than to offer each of you, as I have Mrs. Obama, my complete and total apology and for any offense I have caused.

I have embarrassed myself as well as my friends and associates and the members of my family. All I can do is ask you to forgive me. Thank you very much."

He would not take questions after the news conference, but told News Channel 7's Robert Kittle that he has resigned from his job as a commercial real estate broker because of this incident.

After the apology, Dr. Randolph said, "I appreciate him recognizing the fact that he made a mistake and his earlier statement was not appropriate."

He said he hoped some good could come from the controversy by starting a dialogue about race, perceptions and stereotypes. "The healing process can begin now," he said of DePass's apology.