Former President Donald Trump has publicly defended conservative commentator Tucker Carlson's decision to interview far-right activist Nick Fuentes, whose antisemitic views have created significant divisions within the Republican Party.
Trump's Defense of Controversial Interview
Speaking to reporters on Sunday while preparing to depart West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump brushed aside concerns about Carlson's recent podcast conversation with Fuentes. The former president emphasized that Carlson has "said good things about me over the years" and defended the commentator's editorial independence.
"You can't tell him who to interview," Trump stated firmly. "If he wants to interview Nick Fuentes, I don't know much about him, but if he wants to do it, get the word out. People have to decide."
Trump added minutes later that "meeting people, talking to people for somebody like Tucker — that's what they do. You know, people are controversial." The former president then curiously noted, "I'm not controversial, so I like it that way."
Growing Republican Division
The interview has sparked considerable controversy among conservatives, particularly affecting the Heritage Foundation. The prominent right-wing think tank experienced internal turmoil when its president initially defended Carlson's decision to interview Fuentes, drawing outrage from staff members.
Heritage President Kevin Roberts later denounced Fuentes' views following the internal backlash, highlighting the delicate balance conservative organizations must maintain in addressing far-right elements within their coalition.
Fuentes, whose followers see themselves as working to preserve America's white, Christian identity, appeared to appreciate Trump's supportive comments. The activist posted "Thank you Mr. President!" along with video of Trump's interaction with reporters.
History with Fuentes
This isn't the first time Trump has faced questions about his connection to Fuentes. Three years ago, Trump hosted Fuentes at a dinner at his Mar-a-Lago resort, along with the rapper Ye, formerly known as Kanye West.
At the time, Trump claimed he had not previously met Fuentes and "knew nothing about" him. The visit to Trump's estate drew condemnation from numerous Republicans, including former Vice President Mike Pence, who stated it was wrong for Trump "to give a white nationalist, an antisemite and Holocaust denier, a seat at the table."
On Sunday, Trump reiterated that he didn't know Fuentes at the time of the dinner and claimed he was unaware Fuentes would be accompanying Ye.
The defense of Carlson's interview comes as Trump has used his platform to criticize colleges and universities for what he claims is tolerance of antisemitic views during protests related to the Israel-Hamas war. Meanwhile, Carlson has been critical of U.S. support for Israel in the conflict and has faced criticism for promoting far-right views, including the white-supremacist "replacement" theory.
