Conservative Activist Speaks Out After Attack at University of Michigan

Lizzy Benichou, a conservative Jewish activist, faced violence during a debate at the University of Michigan. Despite being shoved, Benichou remains committed to her cause. She emphasized the attack would not silence her, stating, “It will definitely not dissuade me” on “Fox & Friends.”

Benichou was hosting a debate at the Ann Arbor campus when confronted by a woman. The woman allegedly struck another conservative influencer, Joe Redden, with her phone, before engaging with Benichou. “She slapped Joe in the face with her phone,” Benichou recounted. She responded by highlighting free speech, referencing Iran’s harsh treatment of protestors.

The confrontation intensified when Benichou and Cam Higby discussed women’s freedoms in Iran. Higby reportedly remarked on the woman’s attire, suggesting it would not be allowed in Iran. Benichou questioned, “If you were in Iran dressed like this, what would happen to you?” Supported by nearby Jordanian students, the situation escalated, resulting in a “hard fall” for Benichou.

Violence on campus is growing, with a survey revealing 30% of college students find violence an acceptable method to suppress speakers. Additionally, the University President raised concerns over the justification of violence against “hate speech.”

The incident occurs amid political tensions related to Michigan’s Senate race. Benichou’s visit was partly driven by concerns over Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed’s affiliations and campaign funding, which she aimed to discuss.