In a forceful opinion column, Rich Lowry highlighted concerns about escalating antisemitism within segments of the conservative movement, particularly through the actions of Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens. Lowry argued that if left unchallenged, this trend risks undermining the moral and political integrity of conservatism.
The critique focuses on Carlson’s recent interview with Nick Fuentes, a white nationalist who denies the Holocaust and praises Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin. Lowry described the exchange as an uncritical platform for extremist views, criticizing Carlson for avoiding meaningful scrutiny. He accused Carlson of giving “a 27-year-old Nazi sympathizer a tongue bath” and appearing to concede ideological victory when Fuentes claimed it.
Lowry contended that Carlson and Owens are not merely expressing controversial opinions but actively promoting anti-Zionism and hostility toward Judaism as core tenets of right-wing ideology. He warned that if this effort succeeds, conservatism would face moral and electoral decline, betraying its foundational values and alienating potential supporters.
The column also addressed the broader conservative movement, acknowledging Donald Trump’s pro-Israel stance while cautioning against the influence of extremist voices. Lowry drew a stark historical comparison to 1930s figures like Father Coughlin and Charles Lindbergh, who used platforms to attack Jewish communities. He warned that similar rhetoric, now emerging in mainstream media, poses a serious threat.
Lowry emphasized that this is not a trivial debate about free speech but a critical battle for the soul of conservatism. He called on leaders and followers to confront antisemitic narratives before they reshape the movement’s identity.
