Tucker Carlson apologizes for supporting Trump, admits 'misleading' people

Tucker Carlson apologized to his audience, saying he would be 'tormented for a long time' by the role he played in helping Donald Trump get elected
Tucker Carlson has voiced regret over his past support for President Donald Trump (Getty Images)
Tucker Carlson has voiced regret over his past support for President Donald Trump (Getty Images)


WASHINGTON, DC: Tucker Carlson has made a striking admission about his past support for President Donald Trump, saying he regrets the role he played in helping him get elected.

Speaking on his podcast on Tuesday, April 21, Carlson directly addressed his audience, offering an apology that has quickly caught attention.

Tucker Carlson expresses regret over supporting Donald Trump

During an episode of ‘The Tucker Carlson Show’, Carlson spoke openly about his past role and how he now feels about it. His statement was simple but powerful.

“I’ll be tormented for a long time by the fact that I played a role in getting Donald Trump elected. And I want to say that I’m sorry for misleading people,” Carlson said.

DULUTH, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 23: Political Commentator Tucker Carlson speaks alongside Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump during a Turning Point Action campaign rally at the Gas South Arena on October 23, 2024 in Duluth, Georgia. Trump is campaigning across Georgia today as he and Democratic presidential nominee, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris attempt to win over swing state voters. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
Political Commentator Tucker Carlson speaks alongside US President Donald Trump during a Turning Point Action campaign rally at the Gas South Arena on October 23, 2024 in Duluth, Georgia (Getty Images)

The comment marked a notable shift in tone from someone who had previously been one of Trump’s most visible media supporters.

Carlson’s words suggested a deeper reflection on his influence and how his messaging may have shaped public opinion.

Relationship between Donald Trump and Tucker Carlson shows strain

Carlson’s remarks come shortly after Trump publicly criticized him, along with several other conservative figures. In a post shared on April 17, the president took direct aim at Carlson.

“It’s easy! Tucker is a Low IQ person - Always easy to beat, and highly overrated!!!” Trump wrote.

President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

The comment highlighted a growing divide between the two, who were once closely aligned.

Carlson had previously supported Trump strongly, even suggesting during the 2024 Republican National Convention that Trump’s survival of a murder attempt was “divine intervention.”

However, recent disagreements appear to have changed the tone of their relationship. Carlson has become more critical, particularly when it comes to Trump’s rhetoric and policy approach.

Tucker Carlson’s recent criticizm adds to tensions

In addition to his apology, Carlson has also voiced concerns about Trump’s recent statements, especially in relation to international issues.

During a podcast discussion, he questioned Trump’s tone in a social media post that referenced religion.

HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA - APRIL 02: Tucker Carlson speaks during the 10X Growth Conference 2024 at The Diplomat Beach Resort on April 02, 2024 in Hollywood, Florida. (Photo by Ivan Apfel/Getty Images)
Tucker Carlson speaks during the 10X Growth Conference 2024 at The Diplomat Beach Resort on April 02, 2024 in Hollywood, Florida (Photo by Ivan Apfel/Getty Images)

“Who do you think you are? You’re tweeting out the f-word on Easter morning,” Carlson said. “So, obviously, you’re mocking the religion of Iran.”

These comments reflect a broader shift in Carlson’s approach, moving from strong support to more open criticism.

Political backdrop adds context to fallout

The exchange between Carlson and Trump is unfolding during a tense political period, with ongoing discussions around US involvement in global conflicts, including the situation involving Iran.

Carlson has been among those questioning the administration’s messaging on the issue.

At the same time, Trump has continued to highlight his standing within the Republican base.

President Donald Trump speaks at a Turning Point USA event at Dream City Church, Friday, April 17, 2026, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
President Donald Trump speaks at a Turning Point USA event at Dream City Church, Friday, April 17, 2026, in Phoenix (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

A recent survey from the University of Massachusetts Lowell’s Center of Public Opinion showed that 77% of Republicans viewed Trump favorably, compared to 31% for Carlson.

Trump referenced this data in his post, using it to emphasize his continued influence among voters.

GET BREAKING U.S. NEWS & POLITICAL UPDATES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

Online debate grows as Katie Miller’s podcast draws high-profile guests and scrutiny over ties between media work and Washington power circles
4 hours ago
Megyn Kelly criticized Jack Schlossberg’s campaign conduct, questioning his experience and pointing to reported internal disorder
5 hours ago
Bill Maher accused Democrats of tolerating anti-Israel rhetoric to avoid upsetting younger, TikTok-influenced voters
8 hours ago
Bill Maher said he does not identify as Jewish, while Megyn Kelly has defended Israel but criticized Benjamin Netanyahu’s Gaza campaign
9 hours ago
HBO host slammed President Donald Trump’s China visit as heavy on spectacle but light on substance
21 hours ago
Bill Maher said that Donald Trump appeared overly eager to praise Xi Jinping rather than maintain a firm negotiating stance
1 day ago
Shift in tone angers Trump supporters, with influencer questioning if China has ‘defeated’ US
1 day ago
Smith defends Davidson as one of few mainstream comics still willing to take risks
1 day ago
Letterman joined Colbert in a CBS rooftop bit that escalated into staged destruction of set pieces during the host’s final week on 'The Late Show'
2 days ago
Trump’s remarks on Hannity’s program underscored how deeply some of those exchanges appeared to linger with him even weeks later
2 days ago