Tucker Carlson has sparked a wave of national discourse with his pointed criticism of Florida's latest antisemitism law. The renowned media figure discussed the potential repercussions of the legislation on a show with former Fox News host Megyn Kelly. The law, which has been adopted by multiple states including Florida, has drawn scrutiny for potentially criminalizing criticism of Israel or its advocates.
During the interview, Carlson expressed his apprehension that the law could be interpreted in a way that equates dissenting views on Israeli policies with criminal acts. The implication of his argument was that the broad definition of antisemitism might encroach upon the constitutional right to free speech.
Carlson also raised the possibility that such legislation could lead to a legal landscape akin to that of Europe, where hate crime laws have been criticized for stifling free expression. "I think we're going to wake up one morning with European hate crimes laws written in a way that is not fair at all, that doesn't affect justice," Carlson remarked.
The conversation took another turn when Carlson engaged with Florida gubernatorial candidate James Fishback. While he commended Governor Ron DeSantis for his management of the pandemic, Carlson openly questioned whether the governor's foreign policy decisions were being influenced by Zionist donors. He criticized Governor DeSantis for signing Florida's antisemitism legislation in Israel, labeling the act as "obviously unconstitutional" and "immoral."
Carlson's discontent with DeSantis was further fueled by remarks from Florida's Lieutenant Governor, Jay Collins, following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Collins had emphasized that while free speech is a right, it should not be used to harm others, specifically in the context of calling for the destruction of Israel. Carlson retorted by underscoring the fundamental nature of free speech in America, even when the content may be disagreeable to those in power.
Megyn Kelly, sharing the platform with Carlson, defended the broad protections granted by the First Amendment. She argued that the ability to voice dissent, even in a hateful manner, is intrinsic to American values.
Amid these critiques, Carlson also touched upon DeSantis' stance on the Ukraine War, pointing to a perceived shift in rhetoric allegedly prompted by billionaire donor Ken Griffin. This observation by Carlson suggested concerns about the governor's independence in decision-making.
Governor DeSantis, however, dismissed Carlson's comments as "bizarre," as reported by Florida Politics, and noted that he had not followed Carlson closely since his departure from Fox News.
Despite the heated debate, Carlson and Kelly concurred on the paramount importance of protecting free speech, including expressions that may provoke or upset, as a cornerstone of American freedom.
