Tucker Carlson turns away from the Republican Party

Carlson's words on the podcast

Looking at his own political future, Carlson said he did not know who he would vote for instead. He also announced: "Ich bin raus" — and predicted that many more people would follow him.

The podcast episode had already aired the previous week, but on Monday (local time) it was picked up and circulated by several US media outlets. The report was distributed by the German news agency dpa and published by APA on June 23, 2026.

From Fox star to critic

Carlson had made a name for himself as a host on the conservative US network Fox News, particularly during Trump's first term. He was fired by the network in 2023, with no reasons given at the time. Shortly thereafter, he launched his own online format, in which he repeatedly spread conspiracy theories and disinformation and stirred up sentiment against minorities.

Carlson had built his career closely around Trump, positioning himself particularly during Trump's first term as a close ally of the then-president. With his break, one of the most prominent advocates from the right-wing camp is now turning away from the incumbent.

Many supporters of the "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) movement had hoped Trump would focus more strongly on domestic issues. The break with Carlson could further intensify this current and add fuel to the debate within the right-wing camp.

Outlook on the congressional elections

Trump faces important congressional elections in early November, in which the Republicans must defend their narrow majorities in both chambers. A publicly aired dispute with one of the best-known voices of the conservative camp comes at a particularly unfavorable time for the party in this phase.

Carlson himself did not name an alternative political home. He merely stated that he would support neither Republicans nor Democrats. This leaves open whether the 57-year-old will act as an independent commentator in the future or will gravitate toward another political force.

What is clear is that the move represents one of the most vocal breakaways of a right-wing star from Trump's party in recent years. Observers see the episode as a further sign of growing tensions between the former Fox host and parts of the Republican establishment.