With Election Day just around the corner, The New York Times and Media Matters for America are being accused of attempting to silence conservative voices on YouTube. Commentators Ben Shapiro and Tucker Carlson both say this effort is intended to shield Vice President Kamala Harris from criticism, calling the collaboration an attempt to silence dissent.
Shapiro posted screenshots of a conversation with Times reporter Nico Grant, who reached out about Media Matters research labeling some of Shapiro’s content as “misinformation.” Shapiro argued that the real aim was to “demonetize” his YouTube content, and he called the attempt “scandalous.” Shapiro shared the exchange on social media, stating that this tactic was about “strong-arming” YouTube.
The New York Times is targeting @benshapiro & @TuckerCarlson for demonetization (& ultimately deplatforming) from YouTube at the request of the left wing organization Media Matters.
Let that sink in.
This is why @elonmusk purchasing Twitter was so important for free speech. pic.twitter.com/6t4bnh8HSX
— Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) October 29, 2024
Carlson was also approached by Grant, and he shared his own response on X, accusing the Times of working with “a left-wing hate group to silence critics.” Carlson made it clear he wouldn’t cooperate, telling Grant, “Please quote me,” as he rejected the inquiry. Carlson’s response has drawn significant attention, with Elon Musk even commenting in support.
Media Matters, a progressive group founded by David Brock, has spent years pressuring conservative media. The organization is financially backed by top Democratic donors and has been known to organize boycotts. It regularly labels conservative viewpoints as “misinformation,” particularly close to elections.
Critics argue this coordinated effort is aimed at preventing conservative commentators from discussing election issues, which they say should be covered under free speech. Carlson and Shapiro both emphasize that their remarks on election rules are based on widely reported facts. The timing, so close to the election, has many conservatives questioning if this move is an attempt to stifle dissent before voters head to the polls.
