South Carolina congressman Joe Wilson drew gasps of derision and occasional applause today when he appeared "blacked up" in front of a congressional hearing
He had turned up to refute claims that shouting "You Lie" at America's most popular President since Abe Lincoln was brought on by inherent racism.
Wilson, his face covered in boot polish, told the hearing: "No, mama. I ain't no racist. I's black. I meant no harm to that Uncle Tom."
To prove his point, Wilson then launched into an almost note perfect rendition of Al Jolson's classic, My Mammy.
Though the song itself drew a round of applause, the congressional hearing was unimpressed by Wilson's assertation that he was under considerable stress after watching Kanye West storm the MTV VMAs during an acceptance speech by country singer, Taylor Swift.
He was sentenced to 300 hours community service during which time he must paint the White House black.
Wilson was last seen polishing shoes.
