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.
