Tucker Carlson Criticizes Christian Zionism in Nick Fuentes Interview, Dividing Conservatives

Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News host, criticized Christian Zionists during a podcast interview with Nick Fuentes and called their views a “heresy.” TRT World reported that the discussion lasted two hours and that Carlson called Christian Zionism a “dangerous heresy” and a “brain virus.” CBN reported that the conversation took place on a Tuesday and covered Israel, foreign policy, and theology. TRT World described Fuentes as a far-right influencer and leader of the “Groyper” movement. The Guardian described him as a far-right figure known for antisemitic views.

According to TRT World, Carlson accused Christian Zionists of putting support for the Israeli government ahead of American interests, and Fuentes shared Carlson’s criticism of the evangelical alliance with Israel. The reports differ on which public figures Carlson named. TRT World said he named Mike Huckabee, Ted Cruz, John Bolton, Karl Rove, and George W. Bush as having let loyalty to Israel override American interests. The Guardian said he criticized Cruz and former President George W. Bush. CBN identified Huckabee, U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Texas Senator Ted Cruz, and former National Security Advisor John Bolton as non-Jewish Republicans who support Christian Zionism. CBN quoted Carlson saying their beliefs were “seized with some kind of brain virus” and that he was “offended by that as a Christian.” Disagreements over doctrine call for careful and fair hearing of each side (Proverbs 18:17).

The Guardian reported that the interview sparked significant controversy within conservative circles. It said Kevin Roberts, head of the Heritage Foundation, publicly defended Carlson and affirmed their longstanding friendship. The Guardian’s headline described the interview as dividing conservatives.

An article from the American Enterprise Institute, titled “Tucker Carlson Is Wrong About Christian Zionism,” took a different view of the discussion. It reported that Carlson asked in the interview why so many Americans who describe themselves as Christians support Israel. The article also said Carlson had used the “brain virus” phrase in discussions he has held over time.

The AEI article placed the recent interview within a longer pattern. It said that in June, Carlson questioned Sen. Ted Cruz about the theological sources of Cruz’s foreign policy positions. It also said that last year Carlson hosted country singer John Rich, who echoed a conspiracy theory about the evangelist C.I. Scofield.