Television chef Paula Deen, who lost her gig Friday with the Food Network after admitting and apologizing for having used racial epithets, including the “N-word,” is a supporter of President Barack Obama, campaigning on his behalf in 2008 and cultivating a friendship with first lady Michelle Obama. Though Deen allegedly called Obama the “N-word” in front of her employees, according to a lawsuit, the Southern-bred television personality actually campaigned with Obama in 2008, invited Michelle Obama onto one of her television programs, and praised the first lady’s healthy eating agenda. …