In an interview with NBC News, Tucker Carlson expressed his support for President Donald Trump, stating, “I like Trump. I campaigned for Trump.” However, Carlson also emphasized that he holds his own views. As tensions escalated between Israel and Iran, some of Trump’s followers raised concerns about his decisions. Trump responded directly to Carlson’s criticisms on his Truth Social platform, urging him to understand the seriousness of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Despite the pushback from some supporters, Carlson remained steadfast in his independent opinions, even speaking out against Trump’s actions in the Middle East and the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case. At a recent event, Carlson criticized the administration for dismissing questions about Epstein and emphasized the need for transparency. While he admires Trump personally, Carlson made it clear that he will not hesitate to challenge the administration when he believes it is necessary. This divergence of opinions within the MAGA movement highlights a pivotal moment in its evolution, questioning its future direction beyond Trump’s leadership.
The two men did not disclose the timing of their last conversation. “I’m not involved in making policies,” stated one of them. “I’m simply an individual with personal opinions. I am not employed there, nor have I ever been part of any government. I have never accepted money from any politician or government, and my opinions, although sometimes incorrect, have been flawed. I supported the Iraq War, so my track record is inconsistent.” Regarding his influence in the White House, the individual mentioned, “I was never a significant advisor to Trump. That was always overstated.”
Among MAGA influencers, this individual advocated for the U.S. to refrain from involvement in Iran, a viewpoint that has gained traction on the right due to skepticism towards the U.S.-Israel alliance from some right-wing influencers. This standpoint is also influenced by Trump’s history of endorsing anti-war and non-interventionist perspectives, despite his use of military force as president. The individual acknowledged that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu played a crucial role in persuading Trump to support bombing Iran’s nuclear sites. “It appears that the head of state of an important ally has a more persuasive argument than I do,” he remarked. “It seems reasonable to me. I still disagree, but I don’t believe Trump has completely altered his views.”
Some individuals close to Trump have expressed satisfaction that Trump did not align with this individual’s viewpoint on military action in Iran. “The Iran operation not only targeted the Iranians but also those within the administration who advocated for restraint, including Tucker and others who doubted that the president would take such action,” stated a Trump ally. “They believed he shared their ideological views, which he does not. Those individuals overplayed their hand.”
The relationship between Trump and this individual has experienced ups and downs since Trump’s initial administration. Notably, during Dominion Voting Systems’ 2023 court case against Fox News, text messages were revealed showing the individual disparaging Trump as he sought to overturn his 2020 defeat. However, they reconciled during Trump’s third presidential campaign when both were facing challenges. Their bond strengthened, leading the individual to campaign for Trump, including a prominent speaking role at the Republican convention.
Given the individual’s influence in the MAGA movement, prominent allies of Trump have defended him. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene described the individual as one of her favorite people and deemed opposition to intervention in Iran as rational. Steve Bannon, a former White House aide and media personality within the MAGA movement, characterized the conflict between the two individuals as occurring during a turbulent period for Trump, who is addressing multiple crises simultaneously. Bannon emphasized that the individual remains a key figure in their movement and a robust leader.
“Tucker has always approached this with a critical eye,” Bannon remarked. “He joined the movement later on and took his time to assess it. He has shown respect for President Trump and supported him. Tucker’s critique of the ruling class on Fox prime time was a significant moment for MAGA. Since then, he has consistently stood for ‘America First,’ especially during crucial times.”
Bannon emphasized the importance for MAGA influencers and thought leaders to speak out against policy decisions that deviate from core beliefs. “We must communicate our values daily to ensure they are understood, including by those close to President Trump,” he added.
Despite occasionally criticizing Trump and his administration in the past, Carlson has not gone as far as some other conservative media figures in his dissent. A source near the White House emphasized that Tucker’s criticisms stem from a genuine concern for the president’s success, acknowledging his disagreements on certain policies.
While maintaining strong support among Republicans, Trump pays attention to feedback from the MAGA base. Recent discussions online, including concerns over potential amnesty, have influenced the president’s decisions and responses. The importance of upholding campaign promises to his base is evident in recent actions taken by the administration.
A prominent figure in the MAGA movement described Trump and Carlson as integral to its existence, expressing concerns about the movement’s diminishing influence within the White House on key issues. Criticism of perceived compromises, such as on matters related to Epstein, has caused disappointment among some supporters, indicating a need for greater alignment with MAGA principles.
AGA base’s loyalty to Trump resembles the Epstein files situation. Over the years, many conservatives, including some now in the Trump administration, have demanded the release of all government documents related to Epstein. Epstein passed away in custody in 2019, with his death officially ruled as a suicide by a medical examiner as he faced sex trafficking and conspiracy charges.
Attorney General Pam Bondi recently stated in a memo that the Justice Department’s review found no evidence of a “client list” of influential men allegedly involved in Epstein’s activities. This announcement has angered the MAGA base, leading to calls for Bondi’s dismissal. Despite Trump’s defense of Bondi and his efforts to move supporters past the issue, the backlash persists.
Trump took to Truth Social on Saturday to proclaim, “LET PAM BONDI DO HER JOB — SHE’S GREAT!” and emphasized that the United States should not dwell on Jeffrey Epstein, whom he believes is of little interest to the public.
During an NBC News interview, Tucker Carlson expressed his belief that the Justice Department lacks substantial information on Epstein’s crimes. Carlson criticized Bondi for making baseless claims on televised programs, resulting in the current outrage.
A Senate aide from the Republican party noted Carlson’s emergence as a dissident figure on the right, carving out a unique position for himself. Carlson’s recent heated exchange with Sen. Ted Cruz highlighted the divide within the MAGA movement regarding the conflict between Israel and Iran.
Despite not receiving full support from the administration, Carlson appreciates the significant debates within the conservative sphere on various policy matters. Reflecting on the first six months of Trump’s second term, Carlson acknowledged efforts being made, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling promises made to the American people.
