By Trendsetter Tribune 
On Saturday, March 14, 2026, Tucker Carlson released a video message on X (formerly Twitter) claiming that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been monitoring his private communications and is preparing a criminal referral against him.
Carlson alleges that the agency is targeting him for his outspoken opposition to Operation Epic Fury and his past communications with Iranian officials.
The Allegations: Spying and FARA Violations
Carlson’s claims center on the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), a law that requires individuals acting on behalf of foreign governments to register with the Department of Justice.
- Intercepted Texts: Carlson claimed—without providing physical evidence—that the CIA “read my texts” exchanged with sources in Iran prior to the start of the conflict.
- The “Crime”: He stated the CIA is using these communications to build a case that he is an “unregistered foreign agent” for the Iranian regime.
- Journalistic Defense: Carlson defended his actions as routine journalism, stating, “It’s my job to talk to everybody all the time and try to figure out what’s happening around the world. I’m an American. I can talk to anybody.”
Fissures in the MAGA Movement
The timing of Carlson’s claims coincides with his public fallout with the President over the Iran war. This shift has moved Carlson from the center of the administration’s media circle to its fringe.
- “Lost His Way”: On March 5, the President told ABC News that “Tucker has lost his way” and is “not MAGA,” specifically criticizing his stance on the Iran strikes.
- Loomer’s Attack: Right-wing activist Laura Loomer has publicly celebrated the possibility of Carlson being charged, claiming she has been “relentless” in reporting him to the DOJ for alleged FARA violations related to his ties with Qatar and Iran.
- Support from Allies: Fellow conservative influencers like Candace Owens have rallied to Carlson’s defense, warning that an arrest would be akin to “gulags 2.0” and a suppression of dissent during wartime.
Key Events Leading to the Claim
| Date | Event |
| July 2025 | Carlson interviews Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, drawing widespread criticism for giving him a platform. |
| Feb 23, 2026 | Carlson reportedly has a “tense” final meeting with the President at the White House. |
| March 5, 2026 | The President publicly disavows Carlson, stating he is no longer part of the MAGA movement. |
| March 14, 2026 | Carlson posts a video claiming the CIA is preparing a criminal referral against him. |