Tucker Carlson Emerging as Trump’s Shadow Diplomat
Photo source: Reuters
Tucker Carlson, once an incisive anchor on the Fox News network, has recently been considered for a noteworthy role as Vice President by former President Donald Trump, as he contemplates a possible second term. This surprising revelation, first reported by our publication, may seem unexpected, but a closer look at Carlson’s recent activities reveals a deeper strategy. Not content to serve merely as Trump’s potential deputy, Carlson appears to be auditioning for a more global role, positioning himself as a shadow diplomat for the former president. The relationship between Carlson and Trump has always been complex. As a media pundit, Carlson has been a vocal supporter of Trump, often defending his policies and actions on his popular news show. But it wasn’t until Trump’s potential run for a second term that Carlson’s name started being floated as a possible Vice Presidential candidate. The idea, while novel, underscores the evolving dynamics within the Trump camp and the Republican Party. But what makes Carlson’s trajectory more fascinating is his apparent ambition to become Trump’s top international diplomat. In a world that Carlson himself describes as “completely resetting,” his approach seems to be one of active engagement rather than passive observation.
Recent years have seen Carlson transition from his role as a television host to becoming an influential player in international politics. He has met with world leaders, conducted interviews with influential figures, and made controversial visits to countries like Hungary, where he was seen endorsing the hardline policies of Prime Minister Viktor Orban. This shift in focus aligns with the broader changes in the geopolitical landscape. As nations grapple with unprecedented challenges – from climate change and technological disruption to a global pandemic and economic upheaval – Carlson seems eager to step into the role of a mediator and influencer. He presents himself as a conduit for Trump’s America-first stance, yet his actions appear to be aimed at fostering relationships with leaders who share similar ideologies. Carlson’s diplomatic-style efforts mirror the unconventional diplomacy that marked Trump’s presidency. During his term, Trump often bypassed traditional diplomatic channels, engaging directly with leaders like North Korea’s Kim Jong Un and Russia’s Vladimir Putin. It seems Carlson is taking a leaf out of Trump’s book, using his media platform to engage with international figures in a way that traditional diplomats might not. Critics argue that this move by Carlson blurs the line between journalism and diplomacy, potentially undermining the role of professional diplomats and the State Department. However, supporters view his actions as a fresh approach to international relations, aligning with Trump’s unorthodox style. If Trump does secure a second term and chooses to appoint Carlson as his vice president, it could mark a significant shift in the role of the vice presidency. Traditionally, the vice president has been confined to a domestic role or has been deployed to handle specific international assignments. But with Carlson in the seat, we could see a more active, quasi-diplomatic role for the vice president, particularly in the international arena. It remains to be seen whether Tucker Carlson will indeed become Trump’s vice president, or even his shadow diplomat. But one thing is clear: in Carlson’s view, the world is “completely resetting,” and he seems eager to play a role in shaping its new order. Whether this will lead to a more harmonious global community or further polarisation is a question that will only be answered in time.
By Ovidiu Stanica
