Blake Neff, a producer for “The Charlie Kirk Show,” criticized podcaster Candace Owens on Wednesday. She had claimed that Turning Point USA (TPUSA) founder Charlie Kirk was “betrayed” by leaders within the conservative student organization. Neff stated that TPUSA would address her allegations through a livestream event.
Authorities recently arrested a 22-year-old named Tyler Robinson, suspected of fatally shooting Kirk during a TPUSA event at Utah Valley University on September 12th. On Tuesday, Owens announced she would “name names and provide evidence” related to her claims, which included accusations against French paratroopers, the Egyptian military, and TPUSA leadership.
Neff remarked that for the past couple of months, Owens has made various accusations against TPUSA and its associates, asserting that the organization has faced numerous allegations since Kirk’s murder. “Candace Owens has raised a flood of allegations against the people at Turning Point USA, the people at Turning Point Action, and the people who work for this show,” he pointed out.
He went on to mention Owens’ specific claims, including supposed financial misconduct. Neff expressed deep discontent over Owens’ insinuation that people close to Kirk were involved in his death. “Candace effectively corrupts everyone here by saying that Charlie was betrayed by everyone,” he added. He argued that Kirk maintained a thorough auditing process and personally reviewed all financial matters related to the organization.
Neff reflected on the nature of harassment that people associated with Kirk have faced, stating it’s been more severe than what has come from those celebrating his death. “What our friends have had to endure is not funny or trivial. I’ve seen it,” he stated. He explained that they had refrained from responding to Owens initially because they thought her claims were so outlandish that they wouldn’t be taken seriously.
Furthermore, Neff emphasized that they aimed to adhere to a principle Kirk valued: not engaging with what he called “trolls.” He expressed hopes that Owens would reconsider her statements, which she has not, as Kirk’s murder approaches the three-month mark.
Neff confirmed that TPUSA would hold a livestream to confront Owens’ claims and invited her to join. During a press conference Wednesday, Owens responded to TPUSA’s remarks, asserting, “I’m not a troll. I’m not someone who hated Turning Point and wanted it to fail. In fact, I’m the exact opposite.” She also highlighted her motivation to ensure all aspects of the situation are examined.
At this time, TPUSA has not responded to a request for comment and has yet to announce details for the livestream event.
