Trump lashes out at Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson after their shows draw big audiences

President Trump has reignited his long-standing feud with prominent conservative media personalities, directing a new wave of criticism at Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson this week. In a series of social media posts, he dismissed both as 'low IQ losers' and accused them of undermining national security by allegedly supporting Iran's nuclear ambitions-a claim that fact-checkers say lacks evidence.

The timing of the remarks appears tied to recent ratings success for both Kelly and Carlson, who have built sizable followings since leaving mainstream networks. Kelly's digital talk show and Carlson's independent video platform have drawn millions of views, often blending conservative commentary with criticism of Trump's conduct and rhetoric. Their growing reach seems to have struck a nerve.

Trump's post also named Candace Owens and Alex Jones, suggesting they've been aligned in promoting views he sees as damaging to the country. While Jones has long been a polarizing figure, Owens and Carlson were once seen as key voices in the MAGA movement. Kelly, a former Fox News host, has been especially critical of Trump since their public clash during the 2016 campaign.

The backlash from Trump's camp isn't just personal-it signals concern over influence. As traditional party lines blur, independent media figures are shaping conservative discourse in ways that no longer depend on Republican leadership. With the 2028 cycle already looming, control of the movement's narrative is becoming a high-stakes contest.

Observers note that Trump's strategy of attacking critics-even from within his own base-has been a consistent tactic to maintain dominance. But it also risks alienating voters who value independent thinking. Some longtime supporters say the infighting weakens the broader conservative cause at a time of global uncertainty.

Meanwhile, Kelly and Carlson have not publicly responded to the latest comments. Their teams have instead highlighted viewer growth and engagement, suggesting their audiences value candor over party loyalty. One analytics firm estimates that combined, their platforms now reach more weekly viewers than several major cable news networks.

This moment isn't just about ratings or personal grudges. It's a sign that the conservative media landscape is fragmenting, with no single figure able to command the movement's full attention. Trump may still dominate headlines, but he's no longer the only voice that matters.