Candace Owens and TPUSA in Public Fight Over Halftime Show

Candace Owens and Turning Point USA (TPUSA) are having a public disagreement. The argument is about TPUSA's recent Super Bowl halftime show. Owens has called the event "fake" and TPUSA has reportedly sent her a letter asking her to stop talking about them.
By Newsroom | US Politics, Media |

The public disagreement between commentator Candace Owens and Erika Kirk, head of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), has intensified. The dispute centers on TPUSA's recent Super Bowl halftime livestream event, with Owens leveling accusations of deception and questioning the event's reported success. The situation has also become complicated by a cease and desist letter reportedly sent to Owens by TPUSA, alleging defamation and breaches of confidentiality.

Candace Owens Slams 'Fake' Erika Kirk: Pundit Taunts TPUSA Over 'Gay' Legal Letter as Feud Explodes - 1

Background of the Disagreement

The current conflict appears to have stemmed from TPUSA's alternative Super Bowl halftime show. Candace Owens has openly criticized the event, labeling aspects of it as "fake" and "gay." This commentary follows earlier publications by Owens that included screenshots of private messages, which she stated revealed internal frustrations within TPUSA regarding donors and leadership. These publications, according to reports, have led to significant turmoil for the organization.

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Candace Owens Slams 'Fake' Erika Kirk: Pundit Taunts TPUSA Over 'Gay' Legal Letter as Feud Explodes - 2

  • Key Events:

  • TPUSA held an alternative Super Bowl halftime livestream event.

  • Candace Owens publicly criticized the event, calling it a "scam."

  • Owens used the phrase "everything is still fake and gay" in relation to the event and TPUSA's actions.

  • TPUSA reportedly sent Owens a cease and desist letter concerning defamation and nondisclosure.

  • Owens claims Erika Kirk instructed TPUSA leadership to schedule a livestream to address allegations related to Charlie Kirk's killing.

Evidence of the Dispute

Multiple reports indicate a clear public exchange between Candace Owens and entities associated with Turning Point USA. Owens has made direct statements questioning the authenticity and reach of TPUSA's halftime event.

Candace Owens Slams 'Fake' Erika Kirk: Pundit Taunts TPUSA Over 'Gay' Legal Letter as Feud Explodes - 3

  • Viewership Claims: Owens has pointed to early screenshots of the YouTube livestream showing fewer than 6,000 viewers at one point, directly challenging claims of widespread viewership.

  • Public Statements: Owens has publicly used terms like "fake" and "gay" to describe aspects of TPUSA's recent activities, including the halftime show. She has also referred to the halftime show as a "scam."

  • Cease and Desist Letter: TPUSA has reportedly issued a cease and desist letter to Candace Owens, citing accusations of defamation and breach of nondisclosure agreements tied to her past association with the organization.

  • Allegations of Deception: Owens has accused TPUSA of employing "hype-driven politics" and prioritizing optics over substance, echoing concerns that exaggerated success narratives can damage credibility.

Differing Perspectives on TPUSA's Event

The controversy surrounding the Super Bowl halftime livestream highlights a divergence in how the event's success and authenticity are perceived.

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Candace Owens Slams 'Fake' Erika Kirk: Pundit Taunts TPUSA Over 'Gay' Legal Letter as Feud Explodes - 4

Candace Owens' Critique

  • Authenticity Concerns: Owens has openly questioned the validity of the viewership numbers for TPUSA's halftime show, suggesting that claims of widespread audience engagement are inflated.

  • Content Criticism: She has also criticized the content of the show itself, noting that a portion of it was "presented without a word of English spoken," which she did not favor.

  • "Fake and Gay" Accusation: This phrase, used by Owens, appears to be a general condemnation of what she views as deceptive or inauthentic elements within TPUSA's operations and messaging.

TPUSA's Position (Implied)

  • Reported Success: The existence of the halftime show and the fact that it drew significant viewership (as suggested by Owens's challenge to claims) implies TPUSA viewed it as a successful event.

  • Legal Action: The issuance of a cease and desist letter indicates TPUSA's belief that Owens's public statements have crossed a line into defamation and breach of contract, necessitating a formal legal response.

  • Response to Allegations: Reports suggest TPUSA and its members, like Blake Neff, have been involved in online exchanges and have proposed livestreams to address Owens's allegations, particularly those concerning Charlie Kirk's killing.

The public feud and the issuance of a cease and desist letter suggest potential legal and reputational consequences for all parties involved.

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  • Legal Threats: The cease and desist letter from TPUSA signals a move towards potential legal action if Owens continues to make statements deemed defamatory.

  • Credibility Questions: Owens's criticisms, echoed by others, raise questions about TPUSA's transparency and the accuracy of its reported achievements. This can impact donor confidence and public perception.

  • Internal Strife: Owens's earlier publications of private messages suggest existing internal tensions within TPUSA, which this ongoing dispute further exposes.

Expert Analysis on Media Feuds

Public disagreements involving prominent media personalities and organizations often involve complex interplay of strategy, reputation management, and legal considerations.

  • "These kinds of public disputes, especially when they involve accusations of deception or defamation, can significantly impact public trust," noted a media analyst. "The legal threats introduce another layer, potentially moving the conflict from public commentary to a formal dispute."

  • The use of strong, often inflammatory language in such feuds can galvanize supporters while alienating others. "The aim is often to control the narrative and appeal to a specific base, but it risks alienating a broader audience or drawing unwanted scrutiny," commented a communications strategist.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The public exchange between Candace Owens and Erika Kirk's Turning Point USA has escalated beyond criticism of a specific event to include legal threats and deeply personal accusations. The core of the dispute revolves around the reported success and authenticity of TPUSA's Super Bowl halftime livestream and Owens's broader claims about the organization.

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  • Current State: Owens continues to publicly challenge TPUSA, labeling their actions and event as "fake." TPUSA has responded with a cease and desist letter, indicating a formal attempt to halt Owens's criticisms.

  • Unresolved Issues:

  • The veracity of TPUSA's halftime show viewership claims remains a point of contention.

  • The specific terms of Owens's past association with TPUSA and alleged breaches of nondisclosure agreements are not publicly detailed.

  • The context of the allegations surrounding Charlie Kirk's killing and the proposed livestreams require further clarification.

  • Potential Developments: The situation could lead to further legal proceedings if the cease and desist letter is not heeded. The public will likely continue to observe any further statements or actions from both Owens and TPUSA as the feud unfolds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main problem between Candace Owens and TPUSA?
They are arguing about TPUSA's Super Bowl halftime show. Candace Owens said it was "fake."
Q: Did TPUSA send Candace Owens a letter?
Yes, reports say TPUSA sent her a letter asking her to stop making claims that they say are not true and break promises.
Q: What did Candace Owens say about the halftime show?
She called it "fake" and "gay." She also questioned how many people watched it.