Salem Media Group, a leading U.S. radio company known for its Christian and conservative content, has removed the book and film “2,000 Mules” from all its platforms.
This decision follows a defamation lawsuit filed by Mark Andrews, a Georgia resident, who claims the film falsely accused him of committing ballot fraud during the 2020 election.
The film, produced by Dinesh D’Souza and the nonprofit organization True the Vote, alleges widespread voter fraud intended to undermine former President Donald Trump’s re-election.
A central evidence presented in the film is surveillance footage showing Andrews depositing five ballots into a drop box in Atlanta, which D’Souza described as a criminal act.
Although Andrews’ face was initially blurred in the footage, his whole face was later revealed in promotional materials for the film.
In response to the lawsuit, Salem Media issued an apology, stating that they never intended to harm Andrews.
They expressed regret for the distress caused to Andrews and his family due to his inclusion in the film and related materials.
Salem Media also announced that it will cease distributing the “2000 Mules” film and its accompanying book.
Andrews’ lawsuit details the threats and intimidation he and his family faced following the film’s release, leading them to alter their voting habits out of fear.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation cleared Andrews of any wrongdoing and confirmed that he was legally delivering ballots for himself and his family members.
Despite this, Andrews’ lawsuit against D’Souza, True the Vote, and Salem Media remains ongoing.
The film portrays ballot “mules” allegedly working for Democrats, paid to collect and deliver ballots illegally in multiple swing states.
Salem Media clarified that their involvement was based on D’Souza and True the Vote’s assurances regarding the legitimacy of the footage.
After its 2022 release, D’Souza praised the film’s political and cultural impact, citing its popularity and media coverage.
Former President Trump also endorsed the film, calling it a significant documentary.
However, an Associated Press analysis criticized the film for relying on questionable assumptions and improper data analysis.
Moreover, True the Vote admitted in court that it lacked evidence to support its claims of illegal ballot activity.
Salem Media Group continues to operate a national talk radio network, reaching over 13 million listeners and featuring prominent conservative figures like Charlie Kirk and Sebastian Gorka.
D’Souza, who was once the president of The King’s College in New York, resigned in 2012 amid allegations of infidelity.
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