As Trump makes haters bend the knee, resistance looks futile
Trump has held on to his fans, while browbeating former Republican critics into bowing meekly to his demands. Can it only be a matter of time before the rest of America buckles and puts Trump back in the White House? If the behaviour of all those who privately can't stand Trump but publicly applaud him is any guide, the answer is yes.
Love him or hate him, Trump's ability to extract obedience on the Right is an impressive power that bolsters his mystique. Right now Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News presenter, is being feted as a celebrity in Moscow by the Russian media, while preparing to interview President Vladimir Putin for his internet channel. We know that Carlson shares Trump's open admiration for Putin, has made no secret of his desire for a Russian victory over Ukraine and is the dominant voice on the Right pushing for Trump's return to power.
But what does Carlson really think of Trump? Well, privately he said, "I hate him passionately", in WhatsApp messages disclosed by Fox News before they settled their defamation trial with Dominion Voting Systems for $787 million. He added for good measure, "He's a demonic force, a destroyer. But he's not going to destroy us. I've been thinking about this every day for four years." This was in 2020, when Carlson thought Trump was an election loser who was on the way out. On further reflection, he decided discretion was the better part of valour and that what was good for Trump was good for Tucker. Perhaps his America First schtick and Putin hero-worship is more genuine than his admiration for Trump, though I wonder. We can be sure the young, bow-tied Carlson never dreamed of growing up as a shill for Russia. Yet he has done more than anyone besides Trump to persuade Republicans in Congress to turn their backs on Ukraine and withhold funds for their war effort.
Denne historien er fra February 07, 2024-utgaven av Evening Standard.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9500+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra February 07, 2024-utgaven av Evening Standard.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9500+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Diver Tom Daley loves dancing at Omeara and pressing the champagne button at Bob Bob Ricard
I never really got to go “out out” that often when I was in London because I was always training. So I always appreciated going to see a drag show, going to the theatre. Jodie Harsh would always host a drag brunch on a Sunday.
London's new taste of summer
Discover Cord, a fine dining restaurant in London designed for those who appreciate refined quality.
REBECCA ADLINGTON SAVOURS SAN FRANCISCO
Cycling over the Golden Gate Bridge, shopping at Pier 39 and embracing the amazing food — the Olympic swimmer can't get enough of this place
Brick Lane's Georgian soul in a glass of wine and a slice of khachapuri
In a city ever chasing the next trend, where menus flicker and fade like neon signs in the rain, Aba-Ra stands still — a sanctuary of ancient flavours and familial warmth, as enduring as the Caucasus peaks that inspired it.
Summer styles
Fashion experts from your favourite high street brands share the styles, colours and patterns dominating the chicest of wardrobes this season.
London's summer transfer scramble
Some of Europe's hottest talents are heading for the capital as clubs compete to get their prime business done early
Why is the Mayor turning back the clock on e-vans?
A £9 congestion charge for delivery vehicles will prompt many small companies to cut bills by ditching their EVs.
Londoner's Diary
Sheer ambition from Lola Bute and Jazzyde Lisser, while Kate Moss toasts her McKnight inshining armour
THE MOST UNCOMMON CHARM OF JARVIS COCKER
One of the defining figures of 1990s Britain is back with his band Pulp. Older and wiser, he's still got the elusive magic that made him one of pop's most electric frontmen
Be my guest! Get the perfect wedding look — without upstaging the bride
Expert-approved tips for the most fabulous hair, skin, nails and make-up
