Right-Wing Outlet Faces Possible Libel Suit Over Pipe Bomb Claims

UPDATE: A right-wing media outlet, The Blaze, is facing the potential for a massive libel lawsuit after making explosive claims regarding the January 6 Capitol attack. The outlet alleged that a female CIA employee, formerly associated with Capitol Police, was responsible for planting pipe bombs at both the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters. This sensational report has unraveled rapidly, raising questions of credibility and legality.

The article, which gained traction among notable Republican figures—including Kari Lake and Rep. Barry Loudermilk—was published just days ago, but now draws scrutiny for its dubious sourcing and lack of concrete evidence. According to Will Sommer, writing for The Bulwark, the claims were based on questionable “forensic matches” from camera footage and “gait analysis” that has not been scientifically validated.

The lack of tangible evidence is alarming. The Blaze did not provide any actual video comparisons or verifiable details regarding the gait analysis. Instead, the report relies on an anonymous “video sleuth” known only as Armitas, whose online persona raises further doubts about the legitimacy of the findings. With the FBI and DOJ refusing to comment on the allegations, the credibility of the story is further diminished.

Moreover, the woman identified as the alleged culprit has already been a target of far-right scrutiny. Previously, she was photographed using pepper balls against January 6 rioters and testified against participants in multiple court cases. This context suggests that the allegations might have been retaliatory, driven by political motives.

Shortly after its release, The Blaze had to amend its original claims, incorrectly stating that the woman served as a security detail for former CIA Director John Ratcliffe when she is actually a security guard. Following these developments, many right-wing platforms have stepped back from the story, and some lawmakers like Rep. Anna Paulina Luna have quietly deleted their posts promoting it.

The fallout has sparked division among far-right commentators. Julie Kelly, a prominent figure in the January 6 conspiracy narrative, characterized the article as “weak,” igniting an internal conflict among right-wing pundits. Even Glenn Beck, who initially endorsed the claims, has since refrained from naming the accused woman on his show, emphasizing the importance of presumption of innocence.

As this story continues to evolve, the implications are profound. The potential for a libel lawsuit looms large, as the outlet’s reckless dissemination of unfounded allegations could have serious consequences for both its reputation and the individuals involved.

Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available and the legal ramifications unfold. This developing situation highlights the urgent need for accountability in media reporting, especially concerning sensitive topics like the January 6 Capitol attack.