Republican New York Rep. Mike Lawler on Thursday apologized for painting his face black while in college, after a photo of him dressing up as Michael Jackson for Halloween was shared by the New York Times.

Lawler has described himself as a "super fan" of Jackson's and has been documented as a fan for years. The freshman congressman was even referenced in a biography on the popstar, after he attended a trial in 2005 where Jackson was accused of allegedly molesting a 13-year-old boy at his Neverland Ranch, according to the New York Post. 

In the image, which was posted to Facebook, Lawler is dressed as Jackson in a red leather jacket, black shirt, and blue jeans. His face was darkened by a classmate's bronzer.

“I loved Michael’s music, was awed by him as a performer, and by his impact on pop culture," Lawler said in a statement. "One of my greatest memories is attending his concert at MSG before his untimely death. When attempting to imitate Michael’s legendary dance moves at a college Halloween party eighteen years ago, the ugly practice of black face [sic] was the furthest thing from my mind. Let me be clear, this is not that. 

"My costume was intended as the sincerest form of flattery, a genuine homage to one of my childhood idols since I was a little kid trying to moonwalk through my Mom’s kitchen," he continued. "I am a student of history and for anyone who takes offense to the photo, I am sorry. All you can do is live and learn, and I appreciate everyone’s grace along the way.”

The photo comes as Lawler is engaged in a tough reelection campaign against former Democratic Rep. Mondaire Jones, which could pose an issue for the conservative, who is currently leading in polls. 

Blackface became widespread in minstrel shows from the 1830s, when performers darkened their features to portray black characters. It has long been criticized as an example of anti-black racism. 

Misty Severi is an evening news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.