However, Owens and her supporters weren’t buying it. They argue that the media’s idea of “fact-checking” has become synonymous with attacking conservative viewpoints while giving liberal candidates a free pass.
“What they call ‘fact-checking’ is really just interrupting one side and letting the other slide,” Owens said during a guest appearance on a conservative podcast. “If you’re going to fact-check, do it equally. Don’t pretend you’re being neutral when everyone can see you’re playing favorites.”
Her comments have sparked broader discussions about the role of debate moderators and the fine line they must walk between holding candidates accountable and appearing biased. While some agree that Muir and Davis may have been too aggressive with Trump, others argue that fact-checking is crucial in today’s media landscape, especially when misinformation can spread quickly online.
As with most things involving Candace Owens, her comments ignited a social media firestorm. Hashtags like #DisgraceToJournalism and #StandWithMuirAndDavis began trending, with both sides of the political spectrum digging in their heels.
“Candace Owens is just upset because her guy didn’t get away with lying on stage,” tweeted one user in defense of Muir and Davis. “Fact-checking is part of a journalist’s job. If she doesn’t like it, maybe she should turn off the TV.”
Meanwhile, Owens’ supporters were quick to point out what they saw as a double standard in media coverage. “Candace is right,” tweeted a conservative commentator. “If this was a debate with Joe Biden, the moderators would’ve treated him like a fragile egg, scared to push back too hard. But with Trump, it’s open season.”