San Francisco, California – Fox News host Rachel Campos-Duffy made controversial comments about Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul Pelosi, following former US President Joe Biden’s decision to award the former Speaker with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Campos-Duffy joked on-air about a violent attack on Paul Pelosi that left him hospitalized and with a fractured skull.
During her appearance on Jesse Watters Primetime, Campos-Duffy criticized Biden’s selection of recipients for the prestigious award, suggesting alternative candidates like Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump. She also mentioned Kid Rock and the US Border Patrol as potential awardees, prompting a response from guest host Pete Hegseth.
Hegseth acknowledged that Campos-Duffy’s suggestions may not align with Biden’s preferences, hinting that individuals like Susan Rice, Paul Pelosi, and Gavin Newsom were more likely candidates for the Medal of Freedom. Campos-Duffy then quipped, “Well, maybe Paul Pelosi needs the hammer instead of the medal,” in reference to an incident where Paul Pelosi was attacked with a hammer at his San Francisco home in October 2022.
The hammer-wielding assailant targeted Paul Pelosi when his wife, Nancy Pelosi, was not at home. The attack resulted in serious injuries to his right arm and hands, as well as a fractured head that required surgery. After six days in the hospital, Paul Pelosi was discharged and began his recovery.
The exchange between Campos-Duffy and Hegseth received backlash from viewers, with many condemning their remarks as insensitive and labeling Campos-Duffy as a “racist bigot.” Critics expressed dismay over the lighthearted approach to a serious incident like the attack on Paul Pelosi, calling for accountability and consequences for Campos-Duffy’s comments.
The incident highlights the ongoing political tensions and polarizing discourse in the media landscape, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue and ethical journalism practices. As public figures and media personalities, Campos-Duffy and Hegseth’s words carry weight and can influence public opinion, underscoring the need for responsible and thoughtful communication in the public sphere.