Leftist Media Spin Furiously on French Leftist Rioting
21st October 2026
The New York Post cover on October 19 summed it up in two words: “FRANCE BURNS.” Over the weekend, there was massive unrest in France from leftist extremists. So there were several interesting journalism patterns.
Labeling. Typically, reporters didn’t want to label protesters as “far left,” let alone “left.” Note to reporters: When Greta Thunberg shows up in solidarity, it’s a leftist protest. But some reporters stayed vague, like ABC’s Marcus Moore: “A protest that started with high school students now spiraling to more general concerns about the cost of living, and France’s future.” Anyone with eyes could see it wasn’t just “students” in the streets, and that it’s not just about economics.
Funny Riots? During his one-day work week, Comedy Central star Jon Stewart unfurled the whole “hey, the French are natural rioters” comedy: “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!” Would this be funny to people whose cars and businesses were looted or destroyed?
Political Exploitation. After a few days of violence and destruction, the political implications inevitably break out. The New York Times front page on October 20 lamented: “French Right Has Opening In Upheaval: Riots Fit Rhetoric as Election Approaches.”