President Donald Trump addressed concerns about antisemitism and political boundaries within the Republican Party and the Make America Great Again movement during a recent interview with the New York Times, emphasizing that individuals holding antisemitic views do not belong within the party’s ranks. Speaking about the issue in personal terms, Trump referenced his own family while making clear distinctions about who he believes represents the party’s values. “I think we don’t need them,” he told the outlet. “I think we don’t like them.” He added, “My daughter happens to be Jewish, beautiful, three grandchildren are Jewish. I’m very proud of them. I’m very proud of the whole, that whole family. I am the least antisemitic person probably there is anywhere in the world.”
The comments come amid ongoing public attention on how political parties define their coalitions and address extremist figures who attempt to associate themselves with broader movements. Trump was asked specifically about Nick Fuentes, a far-right figure described as an avowed Hitler apologist. Trump said he had little familiarity with Fuentes and denied any meaningful relationship with him, explaining that Fuentes attended a single dinner at Mar-a-Lago as a guest of musician Kanye West. “I had dinner with him, one time, where he came as a guest of Kanye West,” Trump said. “I didn’t know who he was bringing. He said, ‘Do you mind if I bring a friend?’ I said, ‘I don’t care.’ And it was Nick Fuentes? I don’t know Nick Fuentes.”
Trump’s remarks highlight broader questions about accountability, association, and leadership responsibility within major political movements, particularly as national parties prepare for future election cycles. When asked about the future direction of the Republican Party and potential nominees beyond the current administration, Trump said it was premature to engage in that discussion, pointing instead to the performance of current officeholders. “We have three years and one month left, but he’s doing a great job,” Trump said regarding Vice President JD Vance. “Marco [Rubio] is doing a great job.”
He continued by noting that discussions about future leadership choices were unnecessary at this stage, while still acknowledging the strengths of prominent figures within the administration. “I don’t want to do that, but they do have different, they have great strengths, but somewhat different, but they’re great,” he said. “They’re both doing a great job.” Trump concluded by underscoring his satisfaction with his current leadership team, adding, “I couldn’t be happier with either.”
