DENVER — Governor Jared Polis has sparked controversy once again with his latest comments on social media, where he suggested that followers consider two divisive online figures known for their extreme views. On Sunday, the governor took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to post that while he may not agree with them frequently, he recommends following public intellectuals Richard Hanania and Nicholas Decker for their unique perspectives, asserting that “actual thinking” is rare these days.
Richard Hanania, known for his right-wing views, has faced public scrutiny for his past controversial writings under the pseudonym Richard Hoste. Notably, he has made statements supporting the sterilization of “low IQ” populations, particularly among Black individuals, and has expressed racially charged opinions regarding governance and societal structure. Although Hanania later published a blog where he claimed he has evolved in his thinking, he did not directly apologize for his earlier views.
Nicholas Decker, a student of economics at George Mason University, gained notoriety for his provocative essay titled “When Must We Kill Them?” where he debates the justification of lethal violence against what he perceives as threats to the freedom of the nation posed by former President Trump and his administration. Decker has also come under fire for his posts that appear sympathetic to zoophilia.
In response to inquiries regarding the specifics of Polis’s endorsement of Hanania or Decker, a spokesperson clarified that the governor emphasized he does not align with the majority of their views, including those deemed reprehensible. Polis’s intent, as articulated, is to foster a dialogue that includes opposing perspectives and encourages constructive disagreement.
This is not the first time Polis has faced backlash over his commentary on social media. Earlier in the year, he drew criticism for his enthusiastic support of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination as HHS Secretary, which he tied to Kennedy’s role in opposing vaccine mandates in Colorado. This statement led to further clarifications from the governor’s office, reaffirming his ongoing concerns regarding some of Kennedy’s positions.
In today’s polarized political environment, Governor Polis’s actions reflect an ongoing challenge faced by public figures in navigating complex dialogues while aiming to promote open discourse.