Trump’s Support for Carlson
Former President Trump expressed his backing for Tucker Carlson on Sunday following the political commentator’s decision to interview Nick Fuentes, a figure known for his antisemitic views. This move has sparked division among conservatives.
Trump minimized his familiarity with Fuentes, a White nationalist, while emphasizing Carlson’s loyalty to his political agenda. “I think he’s good, we did some good interviews,” Trump remarked to reporters in Palm Beach, Florida. He added that it is not his place to dictate whom Carlson should interview.
Tucker Carlson was a prominent supporter of Trump during his tenure hosting “Tucker Carlson Tonight” on Fox News from 2016 until he was let go in 2023. The recent interview with Fuentes has stirred reactions within the conservative community, leading figures like Senator Ted Cruz of Texas to voice their disapproval.
The Heritage Foundation’s President Kevin Roberts condemned efforts to “cancel” Carlson, highlighting the growing rift within the conservative think tank over this issue. “People have to decide — ultimately, people have to decide,” Trump stated regarding the controversy.
Fuentes interpreted Trump’s comments as an endorsement. He took to social media saying, “Thank you Mr. President!” alongside a clip of Trump’s remarks.
In 2022, Trump had hosted Fuentes at his Mar-a-Lago estate. At that time, he claimed he was unaware of who Fuentes was when meeting him through rapper Ye (formerly known as Kanye West). “He brought Nick — I didn’t know Nick at the time,” Trump explained on Sunday.
“Meeting people and talking to people is what they do,” Trump said about public figures like Carlson. He acknowledged that some individuals are controversial while others are not but maintained that he prefers not being seen as controversial himself.
