Members of the extremist group Proud Boys celebrated online after Pres. Trump sent a message to them during the first debate. Asked if he would condemn white supremacist groups, Trump declined, instead calling on Proud Boys to 'stand back and stand by.' #Debates2020

In response, far-right activists posted celebratory messages online, and the Proud Boys' social media account posted a meme with Trump's remarks merged with their insignia. #Debates2020

'President Trump owes America an apology or an explanation,' said Jonathan Greenblatt, head of the Anti-Defamation League, which combats hate groups. #Debates2020

Megan Squire, a computer science professor who tracks online extremism, told NBC News, 'To say Proud Boys are energized by this is an understatement. They were pro-Trump before this shoutout, and they are absolutely over the moon now.' #Debates2020