US President Donald Trump is facing mounting backlash from several prominent conservative voices, as growing accusations that he has betrayed core MAGA and 'America First' principles expose deepening divisions within the Republican movement ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The criticism has intensified in the wake of Trump's recent foreign policy decisions, particularly those surrounding escalating tensions with Iran, which have sparked outrage among influential right-wing commentators and political allies who once strongly supported his return to the White House.
The POTUS droppedthe shocking statementduring an encounter with reporters as he was on his way to China.
One reporter asked, 'When you're negotiating with Iran, Mr President, to what extent are Americans' financial situations motivating you to make a deal?'
Trump bluntly responded, 'Not even a little bit.'
Trump on Iran War:Reporter: What extent are Americans’ financial situation motivating you to make a deal?Trump: Not even a little bit. I don't think about Americans’ financial situationpic.twitter.com/TJ94pGpqD8
'The only thing that matters when I'm talking about Iran, they can't have a nuclear weapon,' he added. 'I don't think about Americans' financial situation, I don't think about anybody.'
It did not take long before conservative figures, including Tucker Carlson,Candace Owensand Megyn Kelly, openly questioned whether Trump is abandoning the 'America First' ideology that became central to his political brand.
One of the sharpest rebukes came from Republican gubernatorial candidate James Fishback, who accused Trump of prioritising foreign interests over American citizens. Fishback claimed the Republican Party is now experiencing a 'civil war' between traditional MAGA loyalists and those who still identify with the original America First movement.
'My definition of America First is that if it does not benefit American citizens, it is not America First,' Fishbacksaid, criticising Trump's recent military posture toward Iran.
Source: International Business Times UK
