Kanye West sparked controversy on February 6 with a series of social media posts defending Sean “Diddy” Combs and making inflammatory statements. In a profanity-laden rant on X, West called for former President Donald Trump to pardon Combs, who is currently incarcerated on charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution. “FREE PUFF,” West wrote, before tagging Trump directly, saying, “@realDonaldTrump PLEASE FREE MY BROTHER PUFF.”
Kanye West Calls for Diddy’s Release
Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, has been denied bail multiple times and is set to stand trial on May 5. West criticized other celebrities for staying silent on Combs’ legal troubles, writing, “WE ALL WATCHED TAKE CHRIS BROWN AND AIN’T NOBODY DO NOTHING I WAS P— THEN TOO CHRIS BROWN ITS TO THE WHEELS FALL OFF.”
West’s social media outburst did not stop at defending Combs. He also made antisemitic comments, including praising Adolf Hitler and calling antisemitism “just some bulls— Jewish people made up.” He declared, “I’m never apologizing” for his remarks, insisting that discussions about antisemitic leaders should be “normalized.”
In another post, West criticized X owner Elon Musk, referencing Musk’s past controversy regarding a one-armed salute at an event. West accused Musk of stealing his “Nazi swag.” Musk has previously denied allegations of antisemitism, dismissing the criticism as baseless.
West’s latest remarks add to his history of antisemitic rhetoric. In 2022, he made antisemitic comments online, including a post stating he was going to go “death con 3 on JEWISH PEOPLE.” These statements led to major brands, including Adidas and Balenciaga, severing ties with him. Adidas publicly stated, “Ye’s recent comments and actions have been unacceptable, hateful, and dangerous, and they violate the company’s values of diversity and inclusion, mutual respect and fairness.”
Despite the widespread backlash, West remains unapologetic. His latest posts coincide with the announcement of his upcoming album, Bully, which he said was inspired by his nine-year-old son, Saint. As public criticism mounts, West has yet to respond to the growing condemnation of his remarks.