Nick Fuentes Bashes Antisemitism on the Right

Far-right commentator Nick Fuentes, known for his white nationalist views and leadership of the "Groyper" movement, has called for a major overhaul of the "America First" ideology in 2026, labeling it the "year of refinement."

In a recent livestream, Fuentes expressed frustration over what he described as an "out of control" surge in antisemitism within right-wing circles, suggesting it has attracted unreliable elements and diluted the movement's core principles.The remarks came during Episode 1619 of Fuentes' "America First" show, streamed on January 12, 2026, via his platform Cozy.tv. Titled "VENEZUELAN WAR??? Trump KIDNAPS Maduro, SEIZES Oil," the episode primarily discussed U.S. actions in Venezuela but veered into internal conservative politics.

A clip shared by commentator Ian Miles Cheong on X (formerly Twitter) highlighted Fuentes' critique: "We're in an anti-Semitism bubble... an out of control bull market driven by animal spirits," he said, warning that the fervor is "ready to pop."

Fuentes argued that the movement has inverted its priorities, where anyone not sufficiently "anti-Semitic or Israel-critical" is branded an "Israel shill." He claimed this has drawn in newcomers "red-pilled in the past year or two" who lack a deep understanding of politics and are being manipulated by "leftists, communists, and Islamists."

While acknowledging valid criticisms, like the Iraq War as a costly endeavor benefiting the "Israel lobby," Fuentes rejected alliances with anti-U.S. forces, such as Muslims or leftists opposing interventions for ideological reasons.

"This is the year of refinement," Fuentes declared, emphasizing the need to clarify what "America First" truly means: a nationalist, isolationist stance focused on U.S. interests, without the excesses that could alienate broader support.

He did not explicitly advocate kicking out antisemites, given his own history of Holocaust denial and praise for figures like Adolf Hitler, but implied a tactical shift to focus on "true" nationalists who align with the movement's origins in Trump-era populism.

This comes against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny over antisemitism in conservative media. Fuentes has recently feuded with Candace Owens over her conspiracy theories implicating Israel and Turning Point USA in various plots, as well as with Tucker Carlson for platforming controversial views. The timing also coincides with a Mississippi synagogue arson on January 10, where the suspect echoed "synagogue of Satan" rhetoric popularized by Fuentes and Owens, prompting activists like Samantha Ettus to link online hate to real-world violence.

Critics, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), have long condemned Fuentes for promoting white supremacy and antisemitism, noting his bans from major platforms and the 2022 Mar-a-Lago dinner with Trump that sparked backlash.

Pro-Israel conservatives, such as those in the Republican Jewish Coalition, see his "refinement" as insincere, potentially a ploy to re-enter mainstream discourse.As the American right grapples with internal divisions, exacerbated by issues like Israel, immigration, and conspiracy theories, Fuentes' call could signal a fracturing of the "America First" coalition. Whether it leads to genuine change or further isolation remains unclear.