Infowars, known for its promotion of conspiracy theories, is preparing for a private auction scheduled for Wednesday, as a result of the personal bankruptcy of its founder, Alex Jones. This auction comes in the wake of a staggering $1.5 billion in defamation judgments that have been imposed on Jones following claims that the tragic 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting—a horrific event that claimed the lives of 20 children and six adults—was staged with actors.
Jones has expressed hope that he might remain at the Infowars studio located in Austin, Texas, as long as his supporters are victorious in the bidding process. However, he has also warned that if competitors secure the assets, it could lead to an immediate shutdown of the platform. To prepare for this possibility, Jones mentioned that he has established a new studio and created alternate websites and social media accounts.
During a broadcast on Tuesday, Jones alleged that the auction process was manipulated and voiced his concerns that unfavorable bidders, whom he referred to as “bad guys,” could acquire Free Speech Systems, which is the parent company of Infowars. While he did not provide detailed information about these claims, he assured listeners that he would continue broadcasting from a different studio if necessary.
The auction includes a variety of items such as Jones’ studio desk, the Infowars brand name, an extensive video library, social media accounts, and product trademarks. Additionally, buyers have the opportunity to bid on other unique items, including an armored truck and video equipment. Any unsold items from this auction will be offered in a separate auction next month.
It remains uncertain whether the identities of the winning bidders will be revealed on Wednesday, as the bankruptcy trustee has three business days to report the auction results to a federal court in Texas. Despite his earlier contentious statements, Jones now acknowledges the reality of the Sandy Hook tragedy and is in the process of appealing the defamation rulings against him.