The recent controversy involving Tucker Carlson's interview with Nick Fuentes, who has expressed admiration for Adolf Hitler, has compelled some conservative figures to confront the issue of antisemitism within their ranks. Notable responses include Senator Ted Cruz, who criticized fellow Republicans for their reluctance to denounce Carlson, and the editorial board of The Wall Street Journal, which condemned the presence of antisemitism in conservative politics. Additionally, members of the Heritage Foundation resigned in protest after their president, Kevin Roberts, defended Carlson's remarks, although Roberts later distanced himself from his own defense while maintaining a personal connection to Carlson.

Historically, antisemitism has been rejected by segments of the conservative movement, notably in the 1950s when William F. Buckley Jr. sought to distance the National Review from the antisemitic American Mercury. In the 1990s, Buckley also criticized Pat Buchanan, a figure now being considered for the Presidential Medal of Freedom by some conservatives, despite his controversial views on Jews and Israel. This resurgence of Buchanan's ideas, including the notion that the pro-Israel lobby unduly influences U.S. foreign policy, reflects a troubling trend within conservative thought.

Several factors contribute to the current climate. Cynicism plays a role, as antisemitism is often exploited for political gain, with figures like Candace Owens gaining popularity through overt expressions of such sentiments. Additionally, the intertwining of Christianity with conservatism has shifted the ideological landscape, leading to a perception of a Christian regime that is selectively tolerant of Jews.

While the MAGA movement itself is not explicitly antisemitic, its core beliefs can lead to antisemitic interpretations, particularly in opposition to free trade and immigration policies. These positions can inadvertently align with longstanding stereotypes about Jewish influence in politics and economics.

Antisemitism is not merely a social prejudice; it often manifests as a conspiracy theory that attributes various societal issues to a supposed Jewish cabal. This perspective has gained traction among some right-wing circles, paralleling similar narratives found on the far left. The ongoing rise of antisemitism, both from the right and left, poses significant challenges for Jewish communities, who must navigate these complex and hostile political landscapes.