Journalist Clay Cane's forthcoming book, "The Grift: The Downward Spiral of Black Republicans from the Party of Lincoln to the Cult of Trump,” delves into the nuanced history of Black Republicans, charting a trajectory from their roots in the era of Abraham Lincoln to their evolution into today's contemporary landscape. The book, scheduled to be released on January 30 and currently available for pre-orders, comes at a formidable time as the country prepares for the next presidential election in November 2024.

In an exclusive conversation with BET.com, Cane highlighted the motivation behind his book, citing his deep dismay at the GOP's manipulation of historical narratives, particularly within the political sphere.

"I wrote this book because I've been appalled by how the GOP has distorted our political history. They often cite, ‘Black people used to be Republicans’ or declare, ‘Lincoln freed the slaves’ and shame Black voters for not voting Republican, but ignoring that Black people were literally evicted from the GOP, which I explain in the book,” said Cane.

“The Grift” chronicles the complicated history of Black Republicans, beginning with the Civil War and culminating in the Trump era. Cane highlights the concerning existence of radical elements within the present-day Black Republican community, stressing the urgent necessity to confront and condemn these extremists before their ideologies gain more prominence.

"Presently, there are dangerous extremists who are Black Republicans," he noted. "They are perpetuating white supremacy in our politics. You have to call out extremism before it takes over."

However, the well-researched book also sheds light on the differences within Black Republicanism, drawing distinctions between figures like the first Black secretary of state, General Colin Powell and South Carolina Senator Tim Scott. Cane provided some historical context to explain the Black community's general reaction between two types of Black Republicans.

"Not all Black Republicans are alike. Black Republicans like Frederick Douglass helped to build the Republican Party. Douglass is rolling in his grave at the likes of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. The original Black Republicans would be disgusted by the Black Republicans of today."

From an era characterized by balanced political critiques and a commitment to civil rights and community upliftment, the book navigates the transformation of Black Republicanism. It dissects the shift from revolutionary figures like Douglass to the emergence of influential yet contentious figures in today's political landscape.

Cane underscores the threat posed by Black figures in positions of power who reinforce systemic bigotry, asserting that their actions jeopardize the liberation of Black and brown communities. Through meticulous examination and analysis of these figures and their strategies, "The Grift" exposes the underlying tactics and presents a roadmap toward reclaiming a liberated future.

Featuring insightful interviews with former RNC chair Michael Steele, former HUD official Shermichael Singleton, and a host of other past and present Black Republicans, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex evolution of Black in the Republican Party and their impact on American politics. But "The Grift" isn't just a book—it’s a revelation. Cane's meticulous research, combined with his compassionate storytelling, lays bare the complexities of identity, loyalty, and political evolution within the Black community.

"The Grift: The Downward Spiral of Black Republicans from the Party of Lincoln to the Cult of Trump” is available for pre-order here.