The New Yorker Festival is facing mounting controversy after organizers announced that popular left-wing streamer Hasan Piker will appear in a panel discussion titled “The New Political Arena.” Critics swiftly condemned the decision, pointing to a history of inflammatory remarks—such as his past statements suggesting that America “deserved 9/11” and derogatory comments about Israelis—that many argue should disqualify him from a high-profile platform.
Several groups and individuals have voiced strong opposition. The Anti-Defamation League condemned the invitation, calling it a troubling sign that mainstream media may be normalizing antisemitic rhetoric. Legal advocate Gloria Allred criticized Piker’s previous comments minimizing sexual violence, arguing that such views should exclude him from respectable public forums. New York GOP Chair Ed Cox also called into question the festival’s judgment, labeling Piker a “radical zealot” whose inclusion sends the wrong message as the anniversary of 9/11 approaches.
The New Yorker has not yet responded to the backlash, which has reignited conversations about the boundaries of public discourse and who merits a place in respected cultural events.