DC grandmother defends Trump at Black History Month celebration: ‘Let him do his job’

WASHINGTON, DC: A Washington grandmother whose grandson was killed in a 2017 shooting delivered an emotional and forceful defense of President Donald Trump during a Black History Month celebration at the White House on February 18, drawing loud applause from attendees.

Forlesia Cook took the stage in the East Room, praising Trump’s stance on crime and dismissing accusations of racism that have resurfaced in recent days. Her remarks came as the president faced renewed criticism over a video briefly shared on his Truth Social account that depicted former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as monkeys. The clip was later removed. 

Forlesia Cook defends Trump during Black History Month reception

Cook, whose 22-year-old grandson Marty William McMillan Jr. was killed in 2017, spoke passionately in support of Trump.

“I love him. I don’t want to hear nothing you got to say about that racist stuff,” she said, addressing critics directly.

Her voice rose as she continued, telling detractors not to criticize her for standing by the president. “Get off the man’s back. Let him do his job. He’s doing the right thing. Back off him. And grandma said it,” Cook declared, prompting cheers and applause from the audience as Trump stood nearby.

Cook also credited Trump for deploying National Guard troops to Washington, DC, and praised what she described as his straightforward style. “He keeps it real, just like Grandma. I appreciate that, because I can trust him,” she said.

Trump endorses Cook after emotional speech

Trump thanked Cook for her remarks and suggested she consider running for office.

“When is she running for office? Forlesia, what are you running for office? Please, you have my endorsement,” Trump said, drawing further applause from the crowd.

During the event, Trump also marked the 100th anniversary of Black History Month and praised the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, calling him special and highlighting his personality and grit. He additionally announced that Ben Carson would soon receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor.

Details of Marty William McMillan Jr.’s 2017 killing

Cook has frequently spoken publicly about her grandson’s death and previously testified before Congress.

On April 23, 2017, McMillan left home to meet a woman he had connected with online and did not return. His remains were discovered four months later along a Maryland highway. Authorities said he had been shot multiple times before his body was dumped. Police formally identified him in January 2018.

In 2024, John Jabar McRae was sentenced to 16 years in prison after being found guilty of voluntary manslaughter in the case.