Donald Trump, the former U.S. President, publicly criticized conservative commentator Candace Owens on his Truth Social platform Monday, labeling her “vile” and accusing her of being disloyal to him and the “MAGA” movement. The post, which has since been widely reported, prompted a response from Owens during a livestream broadcast later the same day.
Owens addressed Trump’s remarks with a tone of measured sarcasm, questioning the motivation behind the attack. “I’m just trying to understand the strategy,” she stated during the livestream, according to multiple reports. “Is this a distraction? Is someone whispering in his ear? Is this about 2024?” She did not offer a detailed point-by-point rebuttal of Trump’s accusations, instead framing the criticism as part of a recurring pattern of behavior.
Trump’s original post centered on Owens’ commentary regarding his administration’s efforts to combat antisemitism and her recent statements about the political action committee (PAC) Great America PAC. He specifically took issue with Owens’ criticism of the PAC, alleging it was funded by individuals disloyal to him. Trump claimed the PAC was “extremely dishonest” and had spent millions attempting to damage his political standing.
Owens, in her response, alluded to external pressures potentially influencing Trump’s statements. She suggested that individuals around the former president might be attempting to manipulate his perceptions. “I’m starting to think that somebody is deliberately trying to create a divide,” she said, without naming any specific individuals. She further stated that she found it “peculiar” that Trump would attack someone who had consistently defended him.
The exchange has drawn attention from political analysts, who note the unusual nature of Trump directly attacking a prominent supporter. While Trump has frequently criticized political opponents and media figures, public rebukes of allies are less common. The incident occurs as Trump actively campaigns for the Republican presidential nomination, and as he faces ongoing legal challenges.
Great America PAC, in a statement released Tuesday, defended its record and reiterated its support for Trump. The PAC stated it had spent “tens of millions” supporting Trump’s campaigns and initiatives and dismissed accusations of disloyalty as “false and defamatory.”
As of Wednesday afternoon, neither Trump nor Owens had issued further public statements addressing the dispute. The Republican National Committee has not commented on the matter. Trump is scheduled to appear at a campaign rally in Iowa on Friday.
