Glenn Beck is taking aim at The Young Turks over its new documentary on the late Senator Lindsey Graham. He blasted the film on X and again during his radio show.
What We Know: TYT released The CLOSETocracy this week. The film features three male escorts who claim Graham paid them for sex. One of the men says he was 17 at the time. Additionally, TYT argues Graham was a hypocrite for voting against gay rights. So far, outlets including Newsweek report the allegations have not been independently verified.
Graham died in July at 71. Now, his sister Darline Graham is running for his Senate seat. When the filmmakers asked her about the allegations, she declined to answer. Beck, meanwhile, mocked the film’s premise and questioned its timing. He also argued the network was trying to influence the race.
What They Said: “Congratulations to The Young Turks for spending a fortune to break news that every waitress in South Carolina could have told you for the price of a sweet tea: Lindsey Graham was GAY?! The man is DEAD. He can’t defend himself against ANY of this. TYT did all they could to paint Lindsey Graham as a hypocrite. Maybe they should look in the mirror.” –Glenn Beck
What Remains Unclear: Darline Graham’s campaign has not formally responded to the film. TYT also hasn’t answered Beck’s criticism. Furthermore, it’s unclear whether the documentary will have any impact on voters with the election 12 days away.
What It Means: The film has quickly become a flashpoint for media on both sides. Beck’s response shows how conservative hosts plan to frame it. Rather than debate the allegations, they’re attacking the timing and TYT’s motives. For TYT, the backlash may still bring the attention it wanted.
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