What are your thoughts on Newsmax anchor Bob Sellers cutting off MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell during his interview on Cancel Culture?
In a recent twist of irony, Newsmax, a conservative news outlet, invited MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell to share his experiences with cancel culture. Lindell, infamous for making false claims and spreading misinformation, was previously banned from Twitter for his actions. However, Newsmax found themselves in a cringe-worthy situation when anchor Bob Sellers abruptly cut Lindell off during the interview.
The Winter of Warming Relations
Before the controversy, Bob Sellers, who reportedly spent a couple of nights last winter sleeping at Lindell’s residence (yes, Lindell’s bride was away for the weekend), didn't blame him. Cold weather can be tough, especially in places like Minnesota. Following a day of sledding, Lindell's house became a welcoming refuge for Sellers, a place where not only could they nap, but also partake in a meal of Lindell’s famous pillows – indeed, they are versatile enough for both.
It's worth noting that Lindell’s path to success was not without controversy. Before becoming the MyPillow CEO, he was somewhat of a misfit, an "incel," living a lonely existence. His rise to fame came after stealing a pillow idea from a trusting friend and eventually buying himself a wife and advertising on Fox. This journey to financial success and social approval has only been marred by a series of public denials and falsehoods.
The Irony of the Moment
If it wasn't for the irony, Lindell’s presence alone would have been enough. Newsmax invited him to criticize Twitter’s censorship by sharing his experiences. However, instead of dispelling any doubts, Lindell proceeded to repeat the very lies that led to his ban. Newsmax, in their attempt to avoid legal trouble, hastily cut Lindell off, which only served to highlight their own shortcomings.
The irony here is palpable. Newsmax was trying to address the very issue they were now criticizing – censorship – by inviting someone who was already facing it. They seemingly shot themselves in the foot by not allowing Lindell to finish his points.
Consequences of Falsehood and Legal Scrutiny
Following this incident, Dominion, a company implicated in the 2020 election fraud conspiracy theories, informed right-wing news platforms to cease and desist their allegations or face legal action. These platforms, known for spreading fantasies they know are false while recognizing reality in their personal lives, have now decided to keep their mouths shut. Even Lou Dobbs, a prominent figure in right-wing media, has refuted claims and has become less vocal about the issue.
What’s fascinating is that these actions challenge the very ethos of right-wing media, which prides itself on skepticism and debunking information they perceive as false. By taking a more introspective approach, they are acknowledging the harm they’ve caused and the need to correct their behavior.
In conclusion, the Newsmax incident serves as a cautionary tale. While inviting controversial figures to discuss issues may seem like a strategic move, it often leads to more backlash than benefits. It is crucial for news outlets to critically evaluate their sources and the message they wish to convey, ensuring that they do not inadvertently propagate misinformation.