Right-Wing Outlet Faces Massive Libel Risk Over Bomb Claims

UPDATE: A right-wing media outlet is facing a potential mammoth libel lawsuit after a controversial article claimed to have identified the person responsible for planting pipe bombs at the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters during the January 6 Capitol attack. The Blaze’s explosive scoop suggested a former CIA employee, now linked to the Capitol Police, was involved.

The article quickly gained traction, endorsed by prominent Republican figures including Kari Lake and Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.), who chairs the House’s new January 6th subcommittee. However, just days after its release, the claims are collapsing under scrutiny, prompting experts to question their validity.

According to Will Sommer of The Bulwark, the evidence presented by The Blaze is shaky at best. The outlet cited a “forensic match” based on camera footage and “gait analysis,” yet failed to provide actual video comparisons or substantial details to back these assertions. Instead, they relied on insights from a little-known social media user named Armitas, raising serious doubts about the credibility of the claims.

The situation worsened as the Department of Justice and the FBI opted not to comment on the allegations, leaving the story hanging without official validation. The identified woman, who faced backlash from the far-right, had previously testified against January 6 participants, raising concerns she may have been targeted for retribution.

Moreover, The Blaze made a critical error in their reporting, mischaracterizing her role at the CIA. Initially claiming she served on the security detail for Director John Ratcliffe, the outlet later corrected this to clarify she was merely a security guard.

As the fallout continues, several lawmakers who previously shared the article, including Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, have quietly deleted their posts. Even notable figures within the MAGA community, like Julie Kelly, have labeled the story as “weak,” leading to divisions among far-right pundits.

In a surprising turn, Glenn Beck, who initially supported the claims, has chosen not to name the accused woman, emphasizing her right to dignity and the presumption of innocence. “This person of interest is still a citizen whose life carries the same dignity as yours and mine,” Beck stated, highlighting the complexities surrounding the story as it unravels.

This developing situation underscores the urgent need for responsible journalism, especially when sensational claims could lead to significant legal repercussions. As this story continues to unfold, all eyes are on The Blaze and its handling of the backlash from its explosive yet unsubstantiated allegations.