Minnesota GOP Chief Backtracks: Offensive Facebook Post No 'Hack'

WABASHA COUNTY, MN — After blaming an offensive post from the Wabasha County GOP Facebook page on a "hack," Minnesota Republicans have backtracked and now say a hack never took place.

Wabasha County Republicans were widely condemned Monday after their local Facebook page shared an image comparing the statewide mask mandate to the Holocaust. Jennifer Carnahan, chairwoman of the Minnesota Republican Party, originally said the incident was believed to be the result of a "hack."

Carnahan issued a correction Tuesday.

"Upon further investigation today, the Republican Party of Minnesota has learned the Wabasha County Facebook page was not hacked last night, as believed by the Wabasha County Chair," Carnahan stated.

"The offensive picture was unfortunately posted by a board member who has resigned effective immediately at the party's request. We are saddened by the vitriolic post and hope as we move forward that Republicans and Democrats alike will maintain the highest level of integrity, respect, and sensitivity. The Wabasha County Board and MN GOP apologizes for this disappointing post."

After the incident, the Wabasha County GOP deleted its Facebook page.

On Saturday, a statewide mandate directing Minnesotans to wear masks in public went into effect. Gov. Tim Walz and his administration cited researchers who advocated for mask-wearing, calling it a simple and effective step to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Read more: Gov. Walz Signs Statewide Mask Mandate In Minnesota: What To Know

The Minnesota Republican Party did not respond to a request for comment.