WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (Xinhua) -- Former U.S. President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle on Tuesday broke their silence and denounced Hollywood movie maker Harvey Weinstein for his alleged sexual advancements on female coworkers.
"Michelle and I have been disgusted by the recent reports about Harvey Weinstein," the statement released online said.
"Any man who demeans and degrades women in such fashion needs to be condemned and held accountable, regardless of wealth and status," it said.
The statement came on the same day as former Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton offered her response to the reports, which said she was "appalled."
The New York Times dropped a bombshell report on Friday, saying Weinstein had practiced predatory behavior on female actresses or subordinates, demanding sex or other improper services such as massages.
The Obamas and Clinton have been beneficiaries of Weinstein for years, receiving millions of dollars in campaign funds from Weinstein or through fundraisers he helped organize.
Michelle Obama praised Weinstein in 2013 at the White House as a "wonderful human being" and "a good friend," her daughter Malia was also given an internship opportunity at Weinstein's company in New York.
The comments from the Obamas and Clinton came after they came under increasing pressure to respond to the Weinstein allegations due to their public relationship, but neither of them have offered to give back political donations from Weinstein, as some Democrats in office have done.
