Business Insider faced heavy criticism for publishing a speculative article about what would happen if former President Donald Trump died during the 2024 election campaign.
The article, published Saturday, explored various scenarios in case Trump passes away before or during different stages of the 2024 election process.
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Trump, aged 77, is currently the leading GOP presidential candidate. The article detailed how his death during the primaries or between the primary and general elections could impact the GOP nomination process.
Comparison of Biden and Trump Coverage
Notably, Business Insider also wrote an article about a sitting president’s death during reelection, featuring President Joe Biden.
However, unlike the Trump-focused piece, this article differed in its approach, using Biden’s name less frequently and not mentioning him specifically in the headline.
Following the publication, conservative commentators, including Charlie Kirk and Jack Posobiec, criticized the outlet.
They accused Insider of trying to normalize the idea of Trump’s death and suggested a possible sinister motive behind such speculation.
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References to Past Incidents
These commentators linked the article to past incidents, such as the 2017 shooting of Republican Rep. Steve Scalise by a Bernie Sanders supporter, implying that speculative articles could incite similar acts of violence.
Business Insider has not responded publicly to the criticism on social media or other platforms. The Epoch Times reached out to the outlet for comment but did not receive a response. President Trump has also not commented on the article.
Business Insider’s Ownership and Influence
Based in New York City, Business Insider, acquired by German media giant Axel Springer SE in 2015, is part of a more extensive media network.
Axel Springer SE also owns Politico and several European news brands, highlighting its significant role in the media industry.
Recent polls have shown that many Americans view President Biden as too old for another term, compared to their views on Trump. Monmouth University and The Associated Press-NORC polls reveal differing perceptions about the ages of the two political figures.
Current Standings in GOP Primary Polls
Trump leads significantly in the GOP primary race, followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie.
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