Tucker Carlson and Anti Semitism

 Tucker Carlson and Anti Semitism

In late 2025, Tucker Carlson faced intense scrutiny and widespread accusations of antisemitism from both left-wing critics and within conservative circles, culminating in him being named "Antisemite of the Year" by the watchdog group StopAntisemitism in December 2025. These accusations arose from his, at times, favorable interviews with far-right figures, his criticism of US support for Israel, and his rhetoric regarding "Christian Zionists".

 

Key Incidents and Accusations (2024–2025)

Interview with Nick Fuentes: In October 2025, Carlson hosted a 2-hour interview with white nationalist and avowed Holocaust denier Nick Fuentes, which was described as friendly and lacked strong challenges to Fuentes' views. During this, they discussed "these Zionist Jews" and Fuentes argued that "organized Jewry" is a major challenge to the US.

"Antisemite of the Year" Accolade: StopAntisemitism awarded Carlson this title in December 2025, citing his platforming of extremists, his rhetoric, and a speech at a Turning Point USA event that critics interpreted as implying Jewish involvement in the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Platforming Holocaust Revisionism: In 2024,1, congressmen and critics criticized Carlson for hosting Daryl Cooper, a podcaster who promoted Nazi-apologetic views, including claiming that Jews in concentration camps "ended up dead" due to incompetence rather than intentional genocide.

"Christian Zionist" Rhetoric: Carlson has heavily criticized prominent supporters of Israel, calling them victims of a "brain virus" and describing himself as offended by "Christian Zionism".

 

Response and Impact

Internal Conservative Rift: The interview with Fuentes caused a major split in the GOP, with figures like Ben Shapiro criticizing Carlson as an "intellectual coward" helping to normalize white supremacy in the Republican Party. Others, including some at the Heritage Foundation, initially defended Carlson, leading to internal strife.

Defenses: Carlson has denied being an antisemite, stating in December 2025 that he believes "antisemitism is immoral in my religion". He has maintained that his, at times, harsh criticism of Israel is not motivated by hatred of Jews.

"Most Dangerous Antisemite" Accusations: Some critics, including Representative Randy Fine, have labeled Carlson "the most dangerous antisemite in America," accusing him of leading a "modern-day Hitler Youth" and attempting to steer the MAGA movement against Israel.