Trump doubles down on denial of ‘s—hole’ comments

President Trump doubled down Friday on his claim that he did not call Haiti a “shithole,” saying that he never said anything more than that Haiti was a “very poor and troubled country.”

“Never said anything derogatory about Haitians other than Haiti is, obviously, a very poor and troubled country,” Trump tweeted. “Never said “take them out.” Made up by Dems. I have a wonderful relationship with Haitians. Probably should record future meetings – unfortunately, no trust!”

Never said anything derogatory about Haitians other than Haiti is, obviously, a very poor and troubled country. Never said “take them out.” Made up by Dems. I have a wonderful relationship with Haitians. Probably should record future meetings – unfortunately, no trust!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018

{mosads}

The denial, Trump’s second on Friday, came after reports surfaced that he had demanded in a meeting with lawmakers on Thursday to know why the U.S. allows entry to immigrants from “shithole countries.”

In that meeting, he also reportedly suggested that the U.S. allow in more immigrants from countries like Norway.

The reported comments drew swift backlash from immigrant advocacy and human rights groups, foreign governments and lawmakers, many of whom accused the president of racist behavior.