Independent presidential candidate Cornel West made headlines this week when he chose Black Lives Matter activist Melina Abdullah to serve as his running mate.

As Fox News noted on Thursday, West's vice presidential pick has a long history of engaging in extremist rhetoric. 

Praise for Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan

This includes voicing praise for Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan despite his espousal of anti-white and antisemitic views.

In one infamous example from 1984, Farrakhan praised Adolf Hitler as "a very great man" while addressing an event hosted by his organization.

That didn't prevent Abdullah from saying in 2015 that she felt "humbled, overwhelmed, and profoundly grateful" to "share space" alongside Farrakhan.

Abdullah also came to Farrakhan's defense when he was banned from Facebook and Instagram, saying it was something "we should all be outraged by."

We should all be outraged by the banning of Minister @LouisFarrakhan from Instagram and Facebook. Loving Black people and wanting freedom and self-determination for us does not constitute “Black supremacy.” In a country built on our backs there can be no “Black supremacy.”

— Melina Abdullah (@DocMellyMel) May 4, 2019

"Loving Black people and wanting freedom and self-determination for us does not constitute 'Black supremacy,' she continued before adding, "In a country built on our backs there can be no 'Black supremacy.'"

Abdullah likened police officers to Ku Klux Klan members in social media post

In yet another controversial social media post, Abdullah likened law enforcement officers with members of the Ku Klux Klan.

West announced that he had asked Abdullah to run alongside him during an interview with left-wing radio host Tavis Smiley.

"At this historic and pivotal moment, it is my profound honor to stand alongside my dear sister, Dr. Melina Abdullah, a fierce and tireless advocate for truth, justice, and transformative change," West told Smiley.

West praises running mate for having "unique black analysis"

"Sister Melina's incredible courage, keen intellect, and deep vision have greatly served the cause of liberation in education, worker rights, and both racial and gender justice," he continued.

"Her unique black analysis and witness helps us confront our crumbling era of empire, white supremacy, and patriarchy," West insisted.

The candidate went on to say that he looks "forward to working with her as we strengthen our commitment in our campaign for truth, justice and love."

For her part, Abdullah declared that she regards West as being "one of the most brilliant people to walk this earth" and is "really enthusiastic about his candidacy."