Tucker Carlson Discusses His Evolving Views on Charlie Kirk
Tucker Carlson, a co-founder of the Daily Caller News Foundation, shared his thoughts on “The Charlie Kirk Show” last Friday, reflecting on how he initially had doubts about Kirk. He mentioned how Kirk’s ability to connect with those who disagree with him won him over eventually, even though Carlson found some of Kirk’s approaches offensive.
During a conversation with JD Vance, who guest-hosted the show, Carlson talked about Kirk’s youth and how he seemed to be appealing to mutual friends who are donors. He recalled meeting Kirk when he was just a teenager after being introduced by their mutual friend, Foster Frieth. Initially, Carlson was skeptical and, to be honest, he didn’t think highly of Kirk. “I assumed he was just a predator,” Carlson said. “And there’s also this bias I have—he’s basically my child’s age.”
As Carlson continued, he noted that Kirk seemed quite confident in his approach, something that Carlson hadn’t expected. After agreeing to an event Kirk organized, Carlson found himself drawn into deeper discussions. Despite their differing opinions on issues like the economy and foreign policy, Kirk remained unfazed by Carlson’s critiques.
The two engaged in what Carlson described as intense dialogue, especially over topics like drug use. Carlson expressed his opposition to drugs from his own experiences, while Kirk had never used them and held more libertarian views at the time. This led to some memorable exchanges, especially when the audience reacted negatively to Carlson’s position on marijuana. Kirk, interestingly, seemed to consider Carlson’s stance in that moment.
As their relationship progressed, Carlson mentioned that he and Kirk began to engage in more meaningful conversations, sometimes over meals. He acknowledged Kirk as a unique young man willing to admit his mistakes, a quality he attributed to Kirk’s faith in Jesus.
In a separate note, the Nicotine Pouch Company, co-founded by Carlson and Neil Patel, has made a hefty donation of $1 million. Meanwhile, Kirk’s family has started the givesendgo website in his memory.
