Tucker Carlson abandons Republican Party after 35 years, accusing it of treason over Iran war

The break

Carlson declared on his "Can't Be Censored" podcast on June 22 that he would not support the Republican Party, ending a 35-year allegiance. He also ruled out backing Democrats, saying he does not know what he will do. "I'm out. And if I'm out, then I think a lot of other people are out," he said.

Accusations of betrayal

Carlson accused the party of "treasonous" actions, claiming it prioritizes the interests of Israel and corporate donors over American citizens. He specifically pointed to the Iran war, launched by President Trump in February, as evidence. "How could any American voter support a political party that is not loyal to the United States?" he asked.

“There's no defending this because it's amoral and it's exactly the opposite of what a political party in a democracy is charged with doing, which is representing its own voters, its own citizens, its own nation.”

Falling out with Trump

Carlson had been a prominent Trump supporter in the 2024 election, even serving as an advisor and attending the inauguration. After the Iran war began, he apologized for misleading his audience and said he regretted his support. Trump fired back in April, calling Carlson and other critics "low IQ" and "losers" who are not part of the MAGA movement.

“I knew that a long time ago, and he's not MAGA. MAGA is saving our country.”

Divisions in the MAGA movement

The rift highlights growing fractures within the MAGA coalition, with figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene also breaking with the party over foreign policy. Greene has even promoted Carlson as a potential 2028 presidential candidate. Secretary of State Marco Rubio partially confirmed that U.S. engagement in the Iran conflict came under pressure from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Midterm implications

Carlson's defection comes months before the November midterm elections, where Republicans are fighting to retain control of both chambers. His influence among conservative voters could sway some away from the party, though he has not endorsed any alternative.