The president did not stay silent. On April 17 he called Carlson a "Low IQ person" on Truth Social and told ABC that Carlson is "not smart enough" to understand MAGA. Trump has also labeled Carlson "absolutely disgusting and evil" in private exchanges, according to reports.
Audience response was divided online, with some commenters accusing Trump of far worse and others agreeing with Carlson's assessment. The exchange marks a clear public rupture between a former staunch supporter and the leader he once championed.