Conservative US commentator Candace Owens granted NZ visa after government intervention
GuardianDEC 2024
New Zealand Reverses Candace Owens Visa Ban
Above: Candace Amber Owens Farmer, US conservative political commentator speaks onstage during "Turning Point's The Peoples Convention" on June 14, 2024, at Huntington Place in Detroit, Mich. Image copyright: Jeff Kowalsky/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Candace Owens uses her platform to incite hatred against virtually every minority group — from disparaging racial justice movements and the LGBTQ+ community to downplaying the plight of Jews during the Holocaust. While the US has unfortunately had to endure her bigotry, Australia has asserted its right not to bring her vile disinformation to its shores. It's comforting to know that some governments won't be complicit in platforming her views.
Right Pro-Establishment Narrative
While no one should be banned from speaking, it makes sense that some countries simply wish not to deal with Owens' anti-Semitic rhetoric. As for the rest of her comments, it's unfortunate to see a bright, young conservative fall down the anti-Semitic rabbit hole. Hopefully, Owens will one day see the error of her ways and return to real conservatism, rather than just attacking Jews.
Right Establishment-Critical Narrative
As powerful governments and media organizations seek to defame Owens, it's nice to see her sticking up for free speech. The Western establishment hates that Owens is opposed to funneling US funds into foreign conflicts, particularly for Israel, which is why some are conflating nationalism with fascism and taking her comments out of context. Owens will continue to reach her audience despite these smear campaigns.
Narrative D
Candace Owens thrives on controversy, and giving her publicity only amplifies her platform. This is why New Zealand should have either never banned her in the first place or stuck to its guns on its original decision. Unfortunately, by reversing the call, they have turned a quiet denial into a loud debate, fueling outrage on both sides. She should be left to her fringe audience from here on out.