“Absolutely vile”: Candace Owens accuses Erika Kirk of having strange relationship with a 15-year-old girl
Times of India
by BARSHA DUTTAFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A heated social media clash has erupted between U.S. commentator Candace Owens and her critics over her use of the term "grooming" in reference to a 15-year-old girl's relationship with Erika Kirk. The controversy intensified after a viral post accused Owens of misusing serious allegations for dramatic effect, sparking debates over how such terms are defined and deployed in public discourse.
The flashpoint occurred when Owens suggested that Kirk was "grooming" the young girl, but details from her own interview revealed minimal in-person contact and limited interactions online. During her show, Owens clarified that the girl only met Kirk once in person, describing their relationship as purely platonic and electronic. However, critics like Natly Denise argue that Owens' framing of the situation is inconsistent with the legal definition of grooming, which typically involves ongoing manipulation and control.
Denise accused Owens of twisting the term to suit her narrative, questioning whether she understands its true meaning. She also criticized Owens for misusing other serious terms in the past, such as human trafficking, to protect political allies. This backlash has reignited broader discussions about the responsible use of powerful words in public commentary and the importance of maintaining their original intent.
The debate highlights a cultural clash over how allegations are framed and whether limited interactions can be classified under terms like grooming or trafficking. Legal experts emphasize that these terms have specific definitions, often involving repeated manipulation or exploitation, which critics argue Owens has misrepresented in her commentary.
Ultimately, this controversy underscores the delicate balance between using strong language to raise awareness and ensuring its accuracy to avoid trivializing serious issues. As public figures increasingly use such terms for political or social commentary, questions about their misuse will likely continue to spark debates worldwide, particularly in regions
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/13/2026