In a twist of legal maneuvering, the Daily Wire has reportedly obtained a gag order against its former host, Candace Owens, amid public negotiations for a debate between Owens and Ben Shapiro on Israel and antisemitism. The development was first brought to light by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Glenn Greenwald.
Owens, known for her outspoken nature, parted ways with the Daily Wire in March following disputes over her criticisms of U.S. financing of Israel and her comments regarding Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which she labeled as “genocidal.” The fallout set the stage for what was anticipated to be a heated public exchange between Owens and Shapiro, a co-founder of the Daily Wire and a vocal supporter of Israel.
The proposed debate garnered significant public interest, with both parties initially expressing eagerness to engage in an open discussion on the contentious topic. Shapiro even suggested hosting the debate on his show, proposing a no-moderator format. However, Owens advocated for neutral moderation by figures like Joe Rogan or Lex Fridman. Despite negotiations, the debate failed to materialize.
Behind the scenes, the Daily Wire reportedly took legal steps to prevent Owens from making any public comments that could be perceived as negative toward the company or Shapiro. Greenwald’s report suggests that the gag order was sought through a private arbitrator, citing Owens’ social media activities and her public call for a debate as grounds for disparagement. The arbitrator ruled in favor of the Daily Wire, imposing a gag order effectively barring Owens from criticizing or questioning the motives of Shapiro or the Daily Wire, thus halting any plans for the debate.
Greenwald’s report highlights the discrepancy between the Daily Wire’s public statements expressing interest in the debate and its private legal actions to silence Owens. Owens, when approached for comment, was unable to provide a response due to the gag order.
In response to Greenwald’s inquiries, Jeremy Boreing, co-CEO of the Daily Wire, dismissed the accuracy of the report but did not specify any inaccuracies. He emphasized the sensitivity of the situation and expressed a desire to resolve the issues with Owens privately.
The development sheds light on the complexities surrounding the debate over Israel and antisemitism, as well as the legal battles and behind-the-scenes negotiations within media organizations.
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