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Tucker Carlson's podcast surges up the charts amid MAGA rift over Israel-Iran conflict | CNN Business

The article from CNN, published on June 26, 2025, titled "Tucker Carlson's Podcast Surges Amid MAGA Feud with Ted Cruz and Mark Levin," delves into the recent developments surrounding Tucker Carlson's podcast and its impact on the political landscape, particularly within the MAGA (Make America Great Again) community. The piece provides a comprehensive overview of Carlson's rise in the podcasting world, his ongoing feud with prominent conservative figures Senator Ted Cruz and radio host Mark Levin, and the broader implications for the Republican Party and conservative media.

Tucker Carlson, formerly a prominent Fox News host, has successfully transitioned to podcasting, where he has seen a significant surge in listenership. The article highlights that Carlson's podcast has quickly become one of the most popular in the conservative space, drawing millions of listeners each week. This success is attributed to Carlson's ability to connect with his audience through his candid and often controversial commentary on current events, politics, and cultural issues. His departure from Fox News, which was marked by a high-profile exit amid disagreements over editorial direction, has not diminished his influence but rather amplified it in the more flexible and less regulated world of podcasting.

The article then shifts focus to the feud between Carlson and two key figures in the conservative movement: Senator Ted Cruz and radio host Mark Levin. The feud began when Carlson criticized Cruz and Levin for what he perceived as their "soft" stance on certain issues, particularly immigration and foreign policy. Carlson accused them of being out of touch with the MAGA base and failing to represent the true values of the movement. In response, Cruz and Levin have both hit back at Carlson, accusing him of sensationalism and divisiveness. Cruz, in particular, has called Carlson's rhetoric "dangerous" and detrimental to the unity of the Republican Party.

The feud has not only dominated conservative media but has also spilled over into social media, where supporters of both sides have engaged in heated debates. The article notes that this conflict has further polarized the MAGA community, with some rallying behind Carlson's more radical positions and others defending Cruz and Levin's more traditional conservative views. This division is seen as a microcosm of the broader tensions within the Republican Party, which is struggling to define its identity and direction in the post-Trump era.

The article also explores the implications of Carlson's podcast success and the feud for the future of conservative media. It suggests that Carlson's rise indicates a shift in the way conservatives consume media, with a growing preference for independent voices and platforms that offer unfiltered content. This trend is seen as a challenge to traditional conservative media outlets, which are increasingly viewed as part of the establishment and out of touch with the grassroots base. The feud with Cruz and Levin is seen as a battle for the soul of the conservative movement, with Carlson positioning himself as a champion of the MAGA base against what he sees as the "elite" of the Republican Party.

Furthermore, the article discusses the potential political ramifications of Carlson's influence. It notes that his podcast has become a significant platform for political discourse, with many Republican candidates and elected officials seeking his endorsement or appearing on his show to reach his large audience. This has given Carlson considerable power within the party, allowing him to shape the narrative and influence the direction of political debates. The feud with Cruz and Levin is seen as a test of this power, with Carlson attempting to assert his dominance over the conservative movement and challenge the established figures within the party.

The article also touches on the broader cultural and societal implications of Carlson's podcast and the feud. It suggests that Carlson's success reflects a growing dissatisfaction with mainstream media and a desire for alternative voices that challenge the status quo. This is seen as part of a larger trend of media fragmentation, where audiences are increasingly turning to niche platforms that cater to their specific interests and beliefs. The feud with Cruz and Levin is seen as a manifestation of this trend, with Carlson representing the more radical and populist elements of the conservative movement, while Cruz and Levin represent the more traditional and establishment-oriented factions.

In conclusion, the article from CNN provides a detailed and nuanced analysis of Tucker Carlson's podcast success and his feud with Ted Cruz and Mark Levin. It highlights the significance of these developments for the conservative movement, the Republican Party, and the broader media landscape. The piece underscores the ongoing tensions within the MAGA community and the broader political and cultural shifts that are shaping the future of conservative media and politics.

Read the Full CNN Article at:
[ https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/26/media/tucker-carlson-podcast-surges-maga-feud-ted-cruz-mark-levin ]