The death of 90-year-old legendary Cuban revolutionary Fidel Castro has shaken the internet, and everyone from President-elect Donald Trump to Nas has weighed in to share their thoughts on the historic event.
Trump’s reaction was simple, and for those who had been furiously tweeting about the news since 1:00 in the morning, comically belated.
He later released a full statement, a strongly worded condemnation of the dead leader.
Trump’s reaction was a stark contrast to that of President Obama, who offered a thoughtful statement that acknowledged the complex relationship between Cuba and the US government and shared hope of continuing to build a more peaceful relationship between the countries.
Other political leaders from around the world commented as well, expressing condolences and admiration for the deceased leader.
Former President Jimmy Carter sent his condolences to the people of Cuba and recounted fond memories of visits with Castro, and Reverend Jesse Jackson expressed his admiration.
However, many conservative leaders around the US did not hesitate to express their disdain for Castro.
Though Castro was controversial, many pointed out how he inspired revolutionaries around the world to fight for freedom.
Mike Huckabee used the moment to criticize San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick for defending Castro earlier in the week. On Wednesday, Kaepernick had a tense exchange with a reporter from the Palm Beach Post over the fact that the QB wore a shirt that pictured the Cuban leader. “One thing that Fidel Castro did do is they have the highest literacy rate because they invest more in their education system than they do in their prison system,” Kaepernick said. “Which we do not do here, even though we’re fully capable of doing that.”
Kaepernick previously stirred up controversy when he was seen wearing a Fidel Castro and Malcolm X t-shirt in August.
He is not the first American activist to be inspired by the Cuban leader, and he wasn't the only celebrity who had nice things to say about Castro’s death.
