On Tuesday, former Fox News host and co-founder of the Daily Caller, Tucker Carlson, announced that his show will now air exclusively on Twitter. In a short video posted on the platform, Carlson began by addressing the notion that much of what is presented in mainstream news media is true, but highlighted that this does not necessarily equate to the truth. He went on to suggest that the news often withholds facts, along with proportion and perspective, and that people are being manipulated as a result.
With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Carlson explained that he could share stories about the limits placed on news reporting, and the fear of losing one's job when pushing those boundaries. He then stated that Twitter is now one of the few platforms that allows for free speech, emphasizing that the site serves as a place for the national conversation to develop, as everyone is allowed on the platform.
However, Carlson went on to criticize the media outlets that dominate the conversation on Twitter, calling them thinly disguised propaganda outlets. He suggested that although debates may appear to be taking place, gatekeepers still hold the power, creating a bad system.
Carlson then announced that his show would be moving to Twitter, where he will be bringing a new version of the show that he has been producing for the last six-and-a-half years. He concluded the video by teasing “some other things” and reinforcing the importance of free speech.
Overall, Carlson's announcement signifies a shift in the way that media is consumed and shared. By moving to Twitter, he is attempting to sidestep the limitations and censorship that he perceives as being inherent in mainstream media outlets. It remains to be seen whether this move will result in a wider audience for his show, or whether it will simply create an echo chamber for those who already agree with his views.