Before You Hit Delete: How to Handle the Fallout from Old Tweets

The Crisis:
A prominent professional running for public office faces backlash after insensitive tweets from a decade ago resurface. Media outlets call for comment, and opponents seize the moment.

Typical Response:
“Those tweets do not reflect who I am today. I have grown and learned, and I apologize if anyone was offended.”

Our Response:
“Those past remarks were wrong, and I deeply regret them. I take full responsibility and understand the pain they caused. Over the past ten years, my values and actions have changed, and I am committed to continuing that growth through service, dialogue, and accountability. I welcome the opportunity to demonstrate that growth through how I lead.”

➡️ Why it works: The revised message goes beyond vague apologies. It accepts responsibility, centers harm, and offers a path toward redemption—essential elements in today’s cancel-aware culture.