Strange bedfellows
Tucker Carlson Joins Trump at White House Roundtable Amid Venezuela Oil Talks
Tucker is having a big week. First, Iranian regime news channles played his interviews on a loop during the media blackout and now he has been invited to join Trump at the White House.
Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson made a surprise appearance at the White House on Friday, January 9, attending a private lunch with President Donald Trump before being invited to a high-level roundtable with U.S. oil executives. The meeting centered on the administration's recent military operations in Venezuela, including the seizure of the country's massive oil reserves—the largest proven reserves globally—and plans for American energy firms to develop them.
Carlson, who has been vocal in his criticism of the Venezuela intervention, was spotted in the East Room standing along the wall and applauding as Trump entered the discussion. The president introduced him to the group as "a very conservative guy, a very good guy," according to attendees. Observers noted Carlson appeared noticeably thinner and red-faced during the event, sparking speculation about his health or demeanor.
The invitation has ignited fierce debate online and among political commentators. Carlson recently lambasted the Venezuela operation on his platform, dubbing it a "global homo" plot and opposing the capture of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
Critics, including far-right activist Laura Loomer, blasted the move, calling Carlson a "virulent Jew hater and Islamic mouthpiece" and questioning his access given his positions on Israel, Iran, and other foreign policy issues. Supporters, however, hailed it as evidence of Carlson's enduring influence within conservative circles or a possible olive branch from the administration.
White House officials provided no formal explanation for Carlson's inclusion beyond the personal lunch invitation from Trump. The event underscores the ongoing tensions within the Republican sphere, as Trump navigates foreign policy wins like the Venezuela oil grab while managing internal party critiques.
As reactions continue to pour in on social media, the visit raises questions about potential shifts in the administration's media strategy or alliances. No further comments have been issued by Carlson or the White House.