What's happened
Donald Trump has publicly revoked his endorsement of Georgia Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, citing her criticisms of his foreign policy and her stance on Jeffrey Epstein files. The move signals a significant rift within the MAGA movement ahead of 2026 midterms, amid disagreements over foreign policy, Epstein, and her recent criticisms.
What's behind the headline?
The Trump-Greene split underscores a growing fracture within the MAGA movement, driven by diverging views on foreign policy and accountability. Trump's public rebuke of Greene signals a strategic move to consolidate support among traditional conservatives and distance himself from controversial figures. Greene’s vocal support for Epstein transparency and her criticism of Israel’s Gaza war position her as a more independent, populist voice, potentially positioning her for a future presidential bid. This rift may weaken Trump’s influence over the Republican base, as internal disagreements become more visible. The timing suggests that both figures are positioning for influence ahead of the 2026 midterms, with Greene possibly seeking to capitalize on her independence from Trump’s shadow. The fallout could lead to further fragmentation within the party, impacting upcoming primary battles and the broader 2028 presidential race. Overall, this episode highlights the shifting allegiances and ideological battles shaping the future of the Republican Party.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports that Trump called Greene 'wacky' and a 'raving lunatic' on Truth Social, explicitly withdrawing support and suggesting he might back a primary challenger in Georgia. The New Arab emphasizes the significance of this rift, noting Trump's criticism of Greene's recent stance on Epstein and foreign policy issues, which marks a departure from her previous pro-Trump stance. The Independent details Trump's accusations that Greene's criticisms are a 'huge miscalculation' and that he no longer takes her calls, framing the split as part of broader Republican jitters ahead of the 2026 midterms. The Times of Israel highlights the strategic implications, suggesting the move could weaken Trump's influence and signal a shift in the party's internal dynamics, especially as Greene positions herself as an independent voice. Overall, these sources depict a complex intra-party conflict driven by policy disagreements and personal rivalries, with potential repercussions for future elections.
How we got here
Greene, once a staunch Trump supporter, has recently broken with him over issues including US foreign policy, her criticism of Israel's Gaza war, and her support for efforts to release Epstein files. Trump’s criticism appears linked to her stance on these issues and her push for Epstein probe transparency, which he opposes. The disagreement reflects broader tensions within the Republican base as they approach the 2026 midterms.
Go deeper
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Marjorie Taylor Greene (born May 27, 1974), also known by her initials MTG, is an American politician, businesswoman, and conspiracy theorist who has served as the U.S. representative for Georgia's 14th congressional district since 2021. A member of the..
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Jeffrey Edward Epstein was an American financier and convicted sex offender. He began his professional life as a teacher but then switched to the banking and finance sector in various roles, working at Bear Stearns before forming his own firm.