Megyn Kelly Faces Backlash Over Antisemitism Comments

Focus Keyword: Megyn Kelly Antisemitism

Former Fox News host Megyn Kelly has recently ignited a firestorm of criticism after she blamed Jewish journalists Bari Weiss and Ben Shapiro for exacerbating antisemitism, all while defending the controversial podcaster Tucker Carlson.

Kelly’s Controversial Claims

In a candid interview with Vanity Fair, Kelly stated that Weiss and Shapiro are responsible for attempts to censor criticisms of Israel. She accused them of fueling antisemitism, a claim that has since provoked outrage from various circles, including political conservatives.

Key Quotes from Kelly’s Interview

• “They are making antisemites,” Kelly said regarding Weiss and Shapiro, while absolving Tucker Carlson of any responsibility for the rising hatred towards Jews.
• “Ben is Israel first,” she asserted, questioning Shapiro’s loyalty to America and alleging his divisive stance within the conservative movement regarding Israel.

Immediate Fallout

Kelly’s comments came shortly after Shapiro condemned her in a speech at Turning Point USA’s AmFest conference. He criticized Kelly and what he views as the growing tolerance for conspiracy theorists like Carlson and former Daily Wire pundit Candace Owens, who has been known to propagate antisemitic conspiracy theories on her platform.

Shapiro’s Response

• Shapiro denounced Kelly’s actions, suggesting that tolerating figures like Carlson is damaging to the conservative coalition.

Growing Outrage

Kelly’s statements have incited considerable backlash within conservative circles. Critics have suggested that this marks a shift in her public persona, with many labeling her as the “groyper grandma,” a nod to followers of the white nationalist Nick Fuentes.

Reactions from Conservative Figures

• Mark Levin, a prominent conservative talk show host, referred to Kelly as a “disgusting fraud and hateful propagandist,” asserting that her words mirror those of Candace Owens.
• David French, a conservative columnist for the New York Times, dismissed Kelly’s assertions outright, stating: “The only person who ‘makes’ an antisemite is the antisemite.”

Diplomatic Voices Weigh In

American diplomat David Friedman, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Israel, criticized Kelly’s narrative, asking her to recall Carlson’s statements that mischaracterized the conflict in the Middle East. Friedman’s insights emphasize the need for accountability regarding inflammatory rhetoric.

The ADL Responds

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has issued a stern warning, stating that Kelly has crossed “a dangerous line” by implicating Jewish individuals in the hatred directed against them. The organization highlighted her “Israel first” claim as a dangerous trope that has fueled antisemitism for centuries.

ADL’s Statement Highlights

• The ADL noted that rhetoric like Kelly’s helps normalize antisemitism and poses risks to Jewish communities.
• They emphasize the urgent need for this type of language to cease immediately.

Conclusion

Megyn Kelly’s recent remarks regarding antisemitism have sparked widespread criticism from various quarters. As discussions around discrimination and accountability continue, her comments serve as a stark reminder of the complex dynamics at play within media and political discourse.

For more insights and discussions about antisemitism and media narratives, visit resources at the ADL and follow updates in media accountability.