Fox News commentator Sean Hannity lambasted MSNBC host Rachel Maddow on Tuesday, labeling her a “make-believe journalist,” a “conspiracy theorist,” and a purveyor of lies. Hannity’s critique emerged within a broader condemnation of mainstream media, prompted by Maddow’s explanation for MSNBC’s decision not to air Donald Trump’s live Iowa caucus victory speech.
Maddow argued that providing an “unfiltered” platform for Trump, who she claimed “knowingly broadcasts untrue things,” incurs a “cost” for news organizations. She pledged to provide updates if Trump delivered substantive comments.
In response, Hannity played a segment of Trump’s speech and derided Maddow, accusing her of deeming Trump’s speech too perilous for NBC’s viewers while lecturing on truth and integrity. Hannity questioned Maddow’s self-awareness and asserted she had been a consistent purveyor of lies and conspiracy theories over several years.
The Fox News host also targeted CNN’s Jake Tapper, criticizing him for talking over Trump’s speech and characterizing Tapper as a “political hack” and a “Democratic operative.” Hannity argued that Tapper prioritized denigrating Trump’s speech in real-time over practicing journalism.
Hannity’s comments align with a conservative perspective, emphasizing skepticism of mainstream media and framing Maddow and Tapper as biased figures with political agendas.
