Full Breakdown
Tucker Carlson and Marjorie Taylor Greene Break With Republican Party
6/24/2026, 6:38:20 AM
Defection: Carlson and Greene Say They Are “Out” of the GOP
On June 18, 2026, Tucker Carlson announced on the “Can’t Be Censored” podcast that he would no longer support the Republican Party, calling it “immoral” and a betrayal of voters. Later, Marjorie Taylor Greene posted on X that “there is A LOT of us that are absolutely fed up and will not support a party that betrays its voters and country,” adding she is “DONE with the America LAST Republican Party.” Both stressed they will not back the Democrats.
Timeline of Key Moments
June 12, 2026 – Carlson apologizes for past Trump support and warns the Iran war is a wake-up call; June 18, 2026 – he declares “I’m out” of the GOP; June 22, 2026 – Greene posts her X statement; June 23, 2026 – media report the joint defection before the November 2026 midterms.
Public Opinion on the Iran Conflict
A CBS poll (June 17-19) found 36 % approve and 64 % disapprove of Trump’s handling of the Iran war. An Independent-cited poll reported 69 % say the war’s cost outweighs its objectives. Carlson cited these figures as a “wake-up call” for party.
Impact on the 2026 Midterms
Carlson’s podcast reaches roughly 18 million X followers; Greene retains a profile after leaving Congress in November 2025. Their exits may prompt other conservatives to withhold GOP votes, potentially lowering turnout in swing districts before the November 2026 elections.
Official Statements & Responses
Carlson said the GOP has “sold out” voters to foreign interests and called its direction “immoral.” Greene labeled it “America LAST” and said she will not become a Democrat. Spokesman Davis Ingle defended the Iran operation as part of Trump’s “America First” pledge. Trump rebuked Carlson, calling him a “low-IQ person” and suggesting he needs psychiatric help.
Criticism & Opposition
*The View* hosts suggested Carlson’s exit is motivated by money and that he will return when “money leads.” Allies dismissed his claim that Israel pressured the war as a “cop-out.” Republicans warned the split could fracture the MAGA coalition.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Polls differ on the Iran war’s approval rating—one shows 36 % support, another highlights 69 % of respondents who say the war’s cost outweighs its goals. Carlson’s future plans remain vague; he hinted at a 2028 independent run but gave no firm commitment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m out.” — Tucker Carlson
- “There is A LOT of us that are absolutely fed up and will not support a party that betrays its voters and country.” — Marjorie Taylor Greene
- “How could I or any American voter support a political party that’s not loyal to the United States, that puts the interest of a foreign country above those of its own citizens?” — Tucker Carlson
- “There’s no chance I would support the Republican Party.” — Tucker Carlson
What’s Next
Carlson hinted at a possible independent presidential bid in 2028, while Greene has not ruled out formally changing her party registration. Their statements are likely to shape conservative discourse as the November 2026 midterm elections approach.
