Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan has responded to reports of Governor Kay Ivey allegedly wearing blackface during a skit while she was a student at Auburn University in the mid-1960’s.

Ivey released a statement and a separate video apologizing, while saying she does not remember the alleged incident or ever wearing blackface in general.

“I offer my heartfelt apologies for the pain and embarrassment this causes, and I will do all I can – going forward – to help show the nation that the Alabama of today is a far cry from the Alabama of the 1960s. We have come a long way, for sure, but we still have a long way to go,” the governor said.

Lathan, in a statement of her own, applauded the governor for taking responsibility and apologizing.

“The Alabama Republican Party appreciates and supports Governor Kay Ivey taking ownership of and responsibility for this 50 plus year old incident,” Lathan commented.

“While it occurred when she was a college student, Governor Ivey has stood up, admitted her mistake and offered a sincere apology though she has no recollection of the event,” the ALGOP chair addd. “Her extraordinary record of public service shows her ability to work with all people regardless of race, religion or party affiliation. We stand with Governor Ivey uniting our state for a greater future.”

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Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn