Noam Chomsky, TIME's Person of the Year 2026?
- By Elizabeth Sy
- Washington
- Last updated on
Hot news
- Rumor January 2026
- Babies January 8, 2026
- Rumor Central January 2026
According to a top source, Noam Chomsky is leading the race to become Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2026. But while the philosopher's fans are thrilled with the news, many people hold a very different opinion.
UPDATE 10/01/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)
Why not Chomsky for Person of the Year?
The list of nominees for Time magazine’s Person of the Year is always an eclectic mix of world leaders, pop culture icons, buzzworthy names, and human rights activists. The unexpected inclusion of the 97-year-old philosopher, as a 2026 nominee has therefore sparked controversy and debate.
“What makes Chomsky so important is the potential and influence he now has, rather than anything he has already done,” said a panelist who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that earlier this month, the philosopher have already been named ‘American Of The Year’ by some major American newspapers and even ‘Philadelphia Citizen Of The Year’ by the readers of a local gazette in Philadelphia (Noam Chomsky's hometown).
Social Reactions to TIME’s Person of the Year
A representative for the philosopher was not immediately available for comment, but the announcement generated immediate reaction on Twitter:
“Noam Chomsky Named Person of the Year Is No ‘Surprise’.”
— @TheNewsEditor, 9 Jan 2026
“Great choice! Long overdue recognition for his talents. #LoveNoam”
— @BarbaraHeyboer, 9 Jan 2026
“Past recipients include Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler ... then why not Noam Chomsky?”
— @TheClassicObserver, 9 Jan 2026
Could 2026 officially be the Year of Noam Chomsky?
Still, TIME’s editors will make the final decision about who will grace the magazine’s cover as its 2026 Person of the Year.
Who do you think should be TIME’s Person of the Year for 2026?
© 2026 MediaMass All rights reserved. Do not reproduce (even with permission).
Noam Chomsky: Recent News
- Breaking news January 9, 2026
- Love January 6, 2026
- Money January 9, 2026
Celebrity Central