JD Vance defends relationship with Tucker Carlson

Vice President JD Vance addressed criticisms regarding his relationship with right-wing podcaster Tucker Carlson during a White House briefing on Thursday. The scrutiny follows questions raised during a Republican Jewish Coalition summit concerning Carlson’s history of platforming antisemitic content.

Vance characterized Carlson as a “friend,” noting that while they disagree on certain issues, including Carlson’s criticism of President Donald Trump, he refuses to “throw friends under the bus” due to political differences. Vance argued that the ability for individuals with different perspectives to maintain friendships is essential to the republic.