Full Breakdown
Megyn Kelly Accuses Ben Shapiro and Bari Weiss of Fostering Antisemitism
12/23/2025, 9:36:13 PM
Rising Tensions Among Conservative Figures
The ongoing conflict within the American conservative movement has intensified, particularly following remarks made by Megyn Kelly regarding fellow conservative commentators Ben Shapiro and Bari Weiss. At the recent AmericaFest event hosted by Turning Point USA, Shapiro publicly criticized Kelly for her refusal to denounce Candace Owens, who has been accused of promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories. In response, Kelly asserted that Shapiro and Weiss are responsible for fostering antisemitism among young conservatives through their pro-Israel rhetoric.
The Core Conflict
During his speech at AmericaFest, Shapiro labeled Kelly's stance as “cowardice” and condemned her association with Owens, who has made controversial claims about the death of Turning Point USA chief Charlie Kirk. Shapiro emphasized the moral imperative to support Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk, stating, “Friendship with the person accusing TPUSA of a coverup of Charlie’s murder is no excuse for cowardice.” Kelly, however, defended Owens, suggesting that questioning the circumstances surrounding Kirk's death should not be silenced.
In a subsequent interview with Vanity Fair, Kelly escalated her criticism, claiming that Shapiro's and Weiss's actions are “making antisemites.” She argued that their attempts to censor criticism of Israel are counterproductive and divisive within the conservative movement. Kelly stated, “Why would you divide the American conservative movement... over Israel?”
Official Statements & Responses
Kelly's remarks reflect a broader concern about the direction of the conservative movement, particularly among younger Republicans who are reportedly becoming more critical of Israel. She accused Shapiro and Weiss of creating a litmus test for conservatism that excludes those who question pro-Israel policies. Kelly articulated her frustration with Shapiro's demands for public denunciations, likening them to left-wing purity tests.
Shapiro, in his AmericaFest address, countered that Kelly's failure to condemn Owens was a betrayal of conservative values. He described her as a friend but insisted that her silence on Owens's actions was unacceptable. Weiss, who has been vocal in her support of Shapiro, echoed his sentiments, stating, “Only Cowards Tolerate Conspiracy Theorists.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Kelly's stance argue that her defense of Owens and her accusations against Shapiro and Weiss undermine the fight against antisemitism. Some commentators have noted that Kelly's alignment with Owens, who has made increasingly inflammatory statements, could further polarize the conservative base. The backlash against Owens's conspiracy theories has also raised questions about the limits of acceptable discourse within the right-wing community.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Kelly claims that Shapiro and Weiss are fostering antisemitism, Shapiro and his supporters argue that their positions are rooted in a commitment to traditional conservative values. This divergence highlights a significant rift within the conservative movement, with no clear resolution in sight. The ongoing debate over Israel's role in American conservatism continues to be a contentious issue, with both sides presenting starkly different narratives.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They are making antisemites… Tucker is not making antisemites. They are.” — Megyn Kelly, Conservative Commentator
- “Friendship with public figures who say or do evil things is not an excuse for silence on the matter,” — Ben Shapiro, Daily Wire Co-Founder
- “Only Cowards Tolerate Conspiracy Theorists,” — Bari Weiss, CBS News Editor-in-Chief
As the conservative movement grapples with these internal conflicts, the implications for its future remain uncertain, with figures like Kelly, Shapiro, and Owens at the forefront of a debate that could redefine the ideological landscape of American conservatism.
