Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan is responding to the uproar over his praise for presidential candidate Barack Obama.

During this week’s Democratic debate, Obama distanced himself from Farrakhan’s recent praise. Farrakhan is known for his anti-Semitic comments and his stance as a controversial leader.

A spokesman for the Chicago-based Nation of Islam released a statement today on behalf of Farrakhan. Abdul Arif Muhammad says this week’s uproar is a diversion from the real issues.

MUHAMMAD: This is simply mischief making intended to hurt Mr. Obama politically.

Muhammad says Farrakhan encourages people to continue to support Obama. At the annual Saviour’s Day address on Sunday, Farrakhan said Obama is the hope of the entire world. But he didn’t endorse the Illinois senator.

I’m Natalie Moore, Chicago Public Radio.