Ben Shapiro denies Candace Owens' departure from Daily Wire was just over disagreement on Israel
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Candace Owens' departure from the Daily Wire has sparked much speculation, but Ben Shapiro, the co-founder of the platform, denies that it was solely due to her stance on Israel.
He suggested that Owens' exit was influenced by multiple factors beyond the disagreements over Israel.
According to New York Post, Shapiro stressed that the Daily Wire operates within certain ideological boundaries but doesn't stifle free speech.
He explained that their approach is guided by the "Overton window," representing the range of politically acceptable viewpoints in mainstream society.
Canace Owens' critique and departure
Prior to leaving, Owens had vocally criticized Israel for its military actions in Gaza following the October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the deaths of at least 1,200 Israelis.
Subsequently, she reappeared on Locals, a subscription-based platform for videos and newsletters.
“She’s free to do whatever she wants to do, to be wherever she wants to be,” Shapiro informed podcaster Dave Rubin during a discussion on Thursday regarding Owens.
Addressing Owens' departure, Shapiro pointed out that the Daily Wire wouldn't necessarily retain a host whose views significantly diverge from their established stance, using the example of positions on issues like abortion.
Critics have raised concerns about potential conflicts between Owens' criticism of Israel and the Daily Wire's position, particularly given Shapiro's vocal support for Israel. However, Shapiro refuted claims of suppressing dissenting views, stating that Owens was not explicitly barred from expressing her opinions.
Debates on free speech and ideological alignment
Ongoing debates around free speech and ideological alignment within media organizations are highlighted by Owens' departure from the Daily Wire, reflecting broader tensions within conservative media circles.
Despite efforts to obtain a comment from Owens, her response remains elusive at present.
Owens' controversial remarks, including those criticized by the Anti-Defamation League as antisemitic, continue to draw scrutiny.
Notably, her social media comments regarding Israel's military actions in Gaza have been condemned, with Shapiro condemning them as "absolutely disgraceful."
In response to criticism, Owens has stood by her beliefs on various platforms. However, accusations of antisemitism from figures like celebrity Rabbi Shmuley Boteach persist, adding to the ongoing discourse surrounding Owens' statements and their implications.
