Bill Ackman isn’t your typical billionaire. He’s a hedge fund titan who doesn’t shy away from a fight, whether it’s taking on corporations, university presidents, or even fellow conservatives. With a net worth hovering around $9 billion, Ackman built his fortune through Pershing Square Capital Management, known for high-stakes activist investing. But lately, he’s become just as famous for his vocal presence on social media and his fierce advocacy for Israel, which has landed him in some heated controversies. From honorary degrees in Haifa to clashing with Tucker Carlson and the tragic story of Charlie Kirk, Ackman’s recent moves have kept him in the headlines.
Ackman’s journey took a personal turn when he married Neri Oxman, an Israeli-born academic, deepening his ties to Israel. This connection fueled his philanthropic efforts and his outspoken stance against antisemitism, especially after October 7. But his strong opinions have also sparked public feuds, with media personalities like Tucker Carlson and allegations involving conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. Through it all, Ackman remains unapologetically bold, whether he’s investing in Israel’s future or defending his reputation on X.
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Ackman’s Deepening Ties with Israel
Bill Ackman’s relationship with Israel has evolved significantly, especially since his marriage to Neri Oxman. Recently, the University of Haifa awarded both Ackman and Oxman honorary degrees, accompanied by an undisclosed donation to build a student plaza named in memory of Oxman’s mother. During his visit, Ackman expressed unwavering optimism about Israel’s future, calling himself “very bullish” on the nation.
He highlighted meetings with top business and political leaders and even revealed a personal 4.99% stake in the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, an investment he says has already grown fivefold. Ackman believes Israel’s strength lies in its “IQ and IP (intellectual property) to population ratio,” and he plans to invest $1 billion in the Israeli economy while exploring philanthropic opportunities in education and science.
BREAKING: Bill Ackman pledges $1 million to add to the FBI’s $100K reward for info on the Charlie Kirk shooter. pic.twitter.com/Tvk2zipDnq
— DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) September 12, 2025
His advocacy extends beyond economics. Ackman has been a vocal critic of antisemitism on college campuses, a stance that intensified after October 7. He credited his late father with inspiring this mission, recalling how his father’s final words emphasized the need to combat rising hatred against Jews. Ackman’s efforts include launching the Carob Trust, a new initiative aimed at tackling antisemitism, though he admits it’s still in its early stages. Despite concerns about “brain drain” in Israel, Ackman remains confident in the country’s resilience, comparing its current generation to the “greatest generation” that emerged from WWII.
Clashes with Tucker Carlson and the Charlie Kirk Controversy
Bill Ackman’s willingness to engage in public spats recently put him at odds with Tucker Carlson. At a Turning Point USA event, Carlson questioned how Ackman amassed his wealth, implying he was merely “well-connected and super aggressive” and suggesting ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Ackman fired back on X, denying ever meeting Epstein and detailing his journey from cold-calling Forbes 400 members to building Pershing Square. He called Carlson’s remarks “defamatory” and demanded an apology, stating, “Tucker owes me an apology. I know I am not going to get one because he is not man enough to care about the truth.”
The controversy didn’t end there. Candace Owens accused Ackman of pressuring Charlie Kirk, the late Turning Point USA founder, to change his stance on Israel during a Hamptons gathering in August 2024. Owens claimed threats were made and implied financial incentives were offered.
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Owens claims Kirk was having a change of heart on Israel before his death and says he was contacted by Bibi Netanyahu.
“I know that… pic.twitter.com/fIwxnI2Km1
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 15, 2025
Ackman vehemently denied these allegations, explaining that the event was a dialogue with young conservative influencers to discuss issues like Israel and the economy. He stated, “I have never threatened Charlie Kirk, Turning Point, or anyone associated with him,” emphasizing that the meeting was about understanding viewpoints, not coercing them. Ackman remembered Kirk fondly, sharing that they had maintained contact until Kirk’s tragic death on September 10.
Ackman’s ability to stay in the spotlight, whether through investments, philanthropy, or controversies, shows no signs of waning. As he continues to navigate the worlds of finance, activism, and social media, one thing is clear: Bill Ackman will always have something to say.
