Former President Donald Trump prioritized greeting right-wing media personality Tucker Carlson over his vice-presidential pick, Sen. JD Vance (Ohio), at the Republican National Convention (RNC) on Monday. This decision, amid a highly charged atmosphere, underscores the influential role Carlson plays in Trump’s circle.
Trump’s Entrance and Carlson’s Influence
Trump, sporting a white bandage over his right ear from a recent assassination attempt at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, entered the Milwaukee venue to an enthusiastic crowd. Waving and fist-pumping his supporters, the former president made a beeline for Carlson, bypassing Vance, his newly announced running mate.
Carlson was seated beside GOP Florida Rep. Byron Donalds, a close ally of Trump. The former president eventually took his seat next to Vance, but the initial snub was evident. Carlson, alongside Elon Musk and tech investor David Sacks, had reportedly advocated for Vance’s selection as Trump’s vice-presidential candidate, according to Axios.
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The Announcement of JD Vance as VP Pick
Trump officially announced Vance as his running mate on his Truth Social platform earlier Monday, lauding the Ohio senator as the “best suited person” for the role. This endorsement came amid speculation and behind-the-scenes lobbying by influential figures in Trump’s orbit.
Tucker Carlson’s Role and Media Presence
Carlson, who transitioned to hosting a talk show on social media after his abrupt departure from Fox News in April 2023, remains a staunch supporter of Trump. He is slated to address the RNC audience this week, further cementing his influential position within the right-wing media landscape.
Interestingly, Carlson was once considered a potential vice-presidential candidate for Trump. In conversations with Axios, Carlson highlighted that Vance’s primary advantage as VP is his genuine alignment with Trump, unlike others who may harbor secret animosity.
“He fundamentally agrees with Trump,” Carlson stated.
A Complex Relationship
Despite his public support, Carlson’s private communications reveal a more complicated relationship with Trump. During the discovery process of the Dominion Voting Systems’ lawsuit against Fox News, messages surfaced showing Carlson’s critical stance toward the former president.
“I hate him passionately,” Carlson wrote at the time.
Conclusion
The dynamics at the RNC highlight the intricate and sometimes contradictory relationships within Trump’s inner circle. As Trump gears up for another presidential run, the roles of key figures like Tucker Carlson and JD Vance will be crucial in shaping the campaign’s direction and strategy. With Carlson’s continued media influence and Vance’s alignment with Trump’s vision, the 2024 election cycle promises to be a contentious and closely watched political battle.
