One year after the murder of his friend Charlie Kirk, conservative commentator Josh Hammer has publicly criticized figures he claims are spreading conspiracy theories and antisemitic rhetoric, particularly in the wake of the anniversary of Kirk's death.
Kirk, a conservative activist known for engaging with diverse viewpoints, was killed on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors allege the accused, Tyler Robinson, was motivated by radical leftist ideology and targeted Kirk as he discussed transgender violence.
Hammer, a senior counsel for the Article III Project, stated in a published column that he has become the target of "vile and utterly baseless smears," including accusations of complicity in Kirk's murder. He specifically called out Candace Owens, describing her as a "ghoul" whose followers have allegedly spread such claims. Hammer noted that in October, an X (formerly Twitter) user, identified as an Owens follower, was arrested and charged with issuing online death threats against him and other conservative commentators, many of whom are Jewish or supportive of Israel.
Hammer contends that the response to Kirk's death has included an "onslaught of conspiratorial right-wing antisemitism," overlooking Kirk's status as a "leading Christian Zionist" and his support for the U.S.-Israel geopolitical alliance. Kirk reportedly referred to Christianity, Judaism, the United States, and Israel as the "four pillars" of the modern West.
The columnist also highlighted that Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk's widow, has been subjected to "wicked claims," though he declined to repeat them. Hammer suggested that a broader distrust of elites, fueled by events such as the Russiagate hoax and the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, has led some on the right to reject verifiable information.
He criticized what he sees as an increase in opportunistic figures promoting "victimhood" narratives over Kirk's message of self-reliance. Hammer also pointed to Vice President JD Vance's recent comments about his relationship with Tucker Carlson, a figure Vance described as a "friend" despite political disagreements. Hammer argued that Carlson is a purveyor of "conspiratorial filth" and that such associations are detrimental.
Hammer urged conservative leaders and institutions to actively counter "unhinged conspiracies," stating that America's conservatives must not abandon the work of discerning right from wrong. He concluded that honoring Kirk's memory requires continuing his advocacy for free speech and honest debate, and rejecting the toxic mentality he fought against.