Key Takeaways

• Ben Shapiro publicly rebuked leading conservatives at a Turning Point USA event.
• He accused Steve Bannon, Tucker Carlson, and Candace Owens of pushing wild conspiracy theories.
• Candace Owens fired back on X, claiming Israeli involvement in Charlie Kirk’s death.
• This right-wing feud highlights growing divisions among Trump allies.

Last Thursday in Phoenix, a fierce right-wing feud broke out at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFirst Conference. Ben Shapiro, a top voice at The Daily Wire, used his stage time to call out Steve Bannon, Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, and others. He said they spread baseless conspiracy theories about Charlie Kirk’s murder and attacked Kirk’s family. In response, Owens posted a cryptic message on X. Meanwhile, Bannon and Carlson stayed mostly silent. However, the clash exposed deep rifts among conservative leaders who once stood united behind former President Donald Trump.

What Happened at the Conference?

Ben Shapiro spoke on the first day of the event, often called the “Super Bowl” for young Republicans. He made a strong speech. He said conspiracies about Charlie Kirk’s murder hurt grieving family members. He named names without holding back. He charged that these right-wing figures questioned French intelligence, Mossad, and TPUSA staff in the cover-up story. He said these rumors were “specious and evil attacks.”

Moreover, Shapiro argued that those who refused to condemn such lies showed cowardice. He targeted Steve Bannon next. He noted Bannon’s history as a PR agent for Jeffrey Epstein. Shapiro argued Bannon often accuses his rivals of foreign allegiance without proof. Then he turned to Candace Owens. He insisted she had no right to repeat wild claims about Kirk’s murder. He stressed that TPUSA members and Charlie’s wife, Erika, deserved respect and privacy.

Why the Right-Wing Feud Matters

This right-wing feud matters for several reasons. First, it shows cracks in conservative unity. Leaders who once rallied together now publicly spar. Second, it raises questions about trust and credibility. When high-profile allies trade conspiracy theories, they risk losing public confidence. Therefore, factions within the GOP risk fragmentation. In addition, many young Republicans look to these figures for guidance. A public spat could leave them confused about who to trust. Finally, the feud highlights how social media amplifies disputes. A quick post on X can ignite a nationwide controversy in minutes.

Candace Owens Strikes Back

Almost immediately after Shapiro’s remarks, Candace Owens took to X. She wrote that Ben Shapiro’s strong defense of Charlie Kirk seemed too personal. Owens claimed Israel was involved in nine out of ten plots. She hinted at shadowy motives behind Shapiro’s loyalty to the Kirk legacy. Her post read, in part: “Ben only cares about Israel’s interests. So Israel is involved.”

Owens’ conspiracy-laden response fueled the right-wing feud further. Some conference attendees cheered her post. Others found it insulting and divisive. Observers noted that Owens blended humor with dark accusations. Yet, she made no attempt to clarify her claims. Instead, she doubled down on the theory that foreign powers had a hand in the murder.

Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson Stay Quiet

Unlike Owens, both Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson largely stayed out of the public argument. Neither took to social media to defend or attack. However, Shapiro did not let them off the hook. He reminded the crowd of Bannon’s past role as Epstein’s PR spokesperson. He also noted Bannon’s habit of accusing rivals of being agents of foreign nations.

In addition, Shapiro pointed out Carlson’s occasional flirtation with conspiracy theories on his show. He said such tactics undermine honest debate. Yet, Carlson remained silent throughout the event. Instead, his speeches focused on broad themes like free speech and government overreach. He did not address Shapiro’s allegations.

How the Feud Affects the GOP

This right-wing feud may reshape the GOP in surprising ways. For example, donors who back these figures might reconsider their support. Staffers and volunteers at Turning Point USA could become divided. Moreover, voters might question the party’s ability to unite around clear goals. If leaders cannot get along, how can they run a successful campaign?

On the other hand, some experts believe the feud could energize the conservative base. A heated debate may attract new attention and donations. After all, conflict often draws media coverage and social media traffic. Therefore, the right-wing feud could end up boosting each figure’s profile. Yet, in the long run, constant infighting tends to harm any political movement.

Moving Forward: Can Unity Return?

As the conference moved to Day Two, the atmosphere remained tense. Some speakers acknowledged the feud without taking a side. They urged unity and focus on shared goals, such as election victories and policy reforms. However, few expected the conflict to end quickly. Trust once broken is hard to rebuild.

In addition, the wider GOP will watch closely. The eyes of grassroots activists, major donors, and other party leaders are on this right-wing feud. Many hope for a truce before key primaries and the general election. Others fear the dispute signals a new era of factional battles. Either way, the outcome could change the landscape of American conservatism.

Conclusion

The right-wing feud at the AmericaFirst Conference revealed deep divides among Trump allies. Ben Shapiro’s callout of Steve Bannon, Tucker Carlson, and Candace Owens shone a spotlight on conspiracy theories and personal attacks. Owens’ swift response on X kept the dispute alive. Meanwhile, Bannon and Carlson mostly stayed silent. As the GOP prepares for future elections, this feud may test the party’s unity and strategy. Only time will tell if these leaders can heal their rifts and focus on shared goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Ben Shapiro criticize other conservatives?

He believed they spread baseless conspiracy theories about Charlie Kirk’s murder. He felt a moral duty to defend Kirk’s family.

What did Candace Owens say in response?

She posted that Israel was involved in most plots and accused Shapiro of caring only about Israel’s interests.

Did Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson join the argument?

No. They did not publicly respond to Shapiro’s remarks or Owens’ posts.

Could this feud impact the 2026 elections?

Possibly. The dispute could split donors, volunteers, and voters, affecting campaign unity and strategy.