Fox News is currently in the process of determining the successor for Tucker Carlson’s prime-time slot, following his departure from the network. Speculation arose that Sean Hannity would fill the 8 p.m. spot, but Fox News has not confirmed this. Hannity, known for his conservative commentary, has been at the center of numerous controversies throughout his career. Here are five of the most controversial moments involving Sean Hannity to date.

Seth Rich Conspiracy Theory:

In 2017, Hannity faced backlash for promoting a conspiracy theory surrounding the murder of Democratic National Committee staffer Seth Rich. Despite no evidence to support his claims, Hannity suggested that Rich’s death was connected to the leaking of DNC emails during the 2016 election. This unfounded theory was widely criticized, leading advertisers to pull their support from his show.

Coverage of COVID-19:

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Hannity downplayed the severity of the virus and contradicted public health experts. He echoed former President Donald Trump’s misleading statements, undermining the seriousness of the pandemic and promoting unproven treatments. Such misinformation can have serious public health consequences and erode public trust.

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Support for Roy Moore:

During the 2017 special election for the U.S. Senate in Alabama, Hannity openly supported Republican candidate Roy Moore, despite allegations of sexual misconduct against him. Hannity’s endorsement of Moore before the allegations were thoroughly investigated drew significant criticism, as it seemed to prioritize political loyalty over the importance of holding individuals accountable.

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Coverage of Black Lives Matter:

Hannity’s coverage of the Black Lives Matter movement has been highly controversial. He has frequently portrayed the movement as violent and labeled it as a threat to law and order, often disregarding the legitimate concerns raised by activists about systemic racism and police brutality. Such framing perpetuates divisive narratives and fails to address the underlying issues at hand.

Conspiracy Theories and Deep State Claims:

Hannity has been known to promote various conspiracy theories and frequently discusses the existence of a “deep state” within the U.S. government. These theories, without substantial evidence, allege that a group of unelected officials secretly manipulate the government. Critics argue that Hannity’s perpetuation of these ideas undermines public trust in democratic institutions and fuels partisan divides.

While Sean Hannity has a significant following among conservative viewers, his controversial moments have drawn criticism from various quarters. Critics argue that his willingness to amplify unverified information and promote divisive narratives contributes to the polarization of political discourse. As Fox News decides on its prime-time lineup, the network faces the challenge of balancing ideological viewpoints while ensuring responsible journalism that prioritizes accuracy and objectivity.