Conservative media turn on Joe Rogan after he apologizes for his racist comments
Written by Jason Campbell
Research contributions from Madeline Peltz
Published
On February 5, podcast host Joe Rogan issued an apology for his past use of a racial slur. The apology came after a compilation video circulated featuring Rogan’s repeated use of the n-word. Rogan, who has a $100 million contract with Spotify, was already under intense criticism for using the platform to spread misinformation regarding COVID-19 and vaccines.
Support for Rogan tends to run high in conservative media. The Daily Wire’s Ben Shapiro tweeted that Rogan was “laughing” at those who called for outreach to be mitigated. YouTuber Steven Crowder called Rogan a “great guy” and defended his misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccine. And Fox News host Tucker Carlson praised Rogan for being “strong” under pressure.
After Rogan apologized for repeatedly using a racial slur, however, some in the conservative media turned on him. The Daily Wire’s Matt Walsh said Rogan should’ve “laughed” at his critics, adding, “Spit in their face. It’s the only way.” Commentator John Cardillo, who spreads misinformation regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, said Rogan “never should have given a millimeter” and he should “be more savage than they are.” And The Post Millennial columnist Blaire White said “The only thing Joe Rogan did wrong was apologize.”
Crowder, who has repeatedly been suspended from YouTube for misinformation and hate speech, said he was “angry” and “upset” with Rogan for issuing an apology, saying, “He caved a little bit.” Crowder went on to call it “ill-advised” and something he “strongly disagreed” with.
Misinformation kingpin and former Trump administration adviser Steven Bannon told Rogan to “man up” and not to “grovel” or “kowtow” to “these people.”
Glenn Beck, who has spread misinformation regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, told Rogan to “never apologize” to “these people.”
The right-wing reaction to Rogan’s apology is just the most recent example that in their perpetual objective to own the libs, conservative media will not tolerate the smallest sign of contrition.