Joe Rogan's podcast guest calls him out for spreading conspiracy theory about LA wildfires.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Joe Rogan came under fire for spreading an unverified conspiracy theory about the recent Los Angeles fires.
During a conversation with comedian Bryan Callen on his podcast, Rogan discussed ongoing investigations into the fires, including speculation that some were caused by arsonists.
Joe Rogan's claim about LA fires
Joe Rogan alleged that organized groups of up to 100 looters were breaking into evacuated homes, some dressed in fake firefighter uniforms.
He claimed a man arrested for arson had “five cell phones and a United Nations prepaid debit card.”
“People are looting like f*****g crazy, smashing through doors and pulling out TVs,” Rogan said, painting a chaotic picture of the wildfire aftermath.
Bryan Callen pushes back against rumors
Bryan Callen, a frequent guest on Joe Rogan’s podcast, quickly expressed skepticism. “I’m skeptical. Is this conspiracy? I just don’t want to be played. You know what I mean? I don’t know what’s true anymore,” he said.
Rogan, in response, asked his producer to verify the claims.
Moments later, the producer revealed that the source of the debit card story was an anonymous X account, and the original tweets had been deleted.
Callen laughed, responding, “You’re spreading rumors, Joe Rogan. You got played.”
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No evidence of UN debit cards
Joe Rogan’s claim about United Nations-issued debit cards has been debunked, according to Daily Mail.
The UN does not provide such cards, and no evidence exists to support the story Similar rumors have circulated on social media, often flagged as fake news.
The confusion may stem from an unrelated initiative in New York City, where officials provided $350 prepaid debit cards to migrants earlier in 2024 as part of a pilot program to cover basic needs like food and clothing.
However, the program has no connection to the Los Angeles fires or arson cases.
Spread of misinformation on LA fires
Joe Rogan’s comments have drawn criticism for amplifying unfounded claims during a time of crisis.
Screenshots of the false statements continue to circulate on social media, further fueling misinformation about the fires.
Critics argue that public figures with large platforms, like Rogan, have a responsibility to ensure the accuracy of their remarks, particularly in emergencies.
As wildfires continue to rage across Los Angeles, destroying thousands of homes and displacing countless residents, law enforcement has reported isolated incidents of looting.
However, no credible evidence supports Rogan’s claim of large organized groups targeting evacuated neighborhoods.
The Los Angeles fires, including the devastating Pacific Palisades and Eaton fires, have left communities in crisis.
Authorities are urging the public to rely on official sources for updates and to avoid spreading misinformation that could exacerbate panic.
