Trump withdraws Greene endorsement, calls her a ‘ranting lunatic’ and hints at backing primary rival
WASHINGTON (High Desert News Online) – President Donald Trump withdrew his endorsement of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene on Truth Social, calling her a ‘ranting lunatic’ and suggesting he may back a primary challenger, a move that deepens fractures within the GOP’s pro‑Trump wing.
- Trump rescinded his endorsement and publicly criticized Greene’s conduct and complaints.
- He called her a “ranting Lunatic” and said he avoided her calls; video coverage and reporting captured his comments.
- Trump signaled openness to backing a primary opponent, saying conservatives in her district were “fed up.”
- Greene pushed back on social media and tied the move to efforts over Jeffrey Epstein files.
Trump’s announcement and wording
Trump posted the announcement Friday night on Truth Social, writing that he was “withdrawing my support and Endorsement of ‘Congresswoman’ Marjorie Taylor Greene,” and accusing her of doing little but “COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN!” India Today carried the full post and context.
“I can’t take a ranting Lunatic’s call every day,” Trump added in follow-ups, a line captured in reports and a short video clip referenced by outlets. ABC17 News summarized the exchange and linked to a video.
Key quote highlighted: “I can’t take a ranting Lunatic’s call every day.” The phrasing represents a rare, public rebuke of a once‑closest ally.
Why now: tensions and media appearances
The split follows weeks of friction. Greene publicly criticized White House messaging on issues from government shutdown talks to the economy and faced scrutiny after media appearances — Trump specifically referenced her interviews on ABC’s The View, accusing hosts of being “Low IQ Republican hating Anchors” and suggesting Greene had “gone Far Left.” India Today reported the broader context.
Trump also cited internal polling he shared with Greene that purportedly showed weak statewide support — a poll he said put her at about 12 percent — using that to argue she was not viable for higher office. India Today relayed the polling reference.
Hinting at a primary rival
Political significance: Trump said conservatives in Greene’s district were “fed up with her and her antics” and pledged “Complete and Unyielding Support” to a suitable alternative, signaling he would consider endorsing a primary challenger — a development with real implications for Republican primary dynamics. India Today and ABC17 News noted how endorsements can reshape primaries.
Greene’s response and the Epstein files
Greene fired back on social media, posting screenshots of texts to Trump and aides and accusing the former president of using the move to intimidate other Republicans ahead of a vote to release files tied to Jeffrey Epstein. Coverage framed her response largely around the Epstein controversy rather than directly rebutting Trump’s complaint about her complaining. ABC17 News carried Greene’s social posts and context.
Wider significance inside the GOP
The public split underscores strain inside the pro‑Trump wing. Greene rose to prominence through fierce loyalty to Trump; his repudiation indicates willingness to distance from controversial allies when politically expedient. Analysts argue this could be an effort to keep swing or moderate Republicans aligned with Trump’s broader coalition by sidelining the most polarizing figures. ABC17 News and KFGO offered analysis on intra‑party consequences.
Possible effects: If Trump backs challengers to outspoken or disruptive members, House Republicans may alter behavior to avoid public rebukes and costly primaries — a dynamic that could further strain caucus unity.
Implications for The High Desert, California
Economic impact: Direct fiscal effects for the High Desert are limited, but national political shifts may affect federal spending priorities and contracting that matter to local businesses.
Political consequences: Local voters may interpret Trump’s move as a cue for candidate strategy; endorsements can change fundraising and media attention, even across state lines.
Social and cultural effects: The split could alter local discourse, nudging some voters toward pragmatic candidates and intensifying debates about party identity in places like Victor Valley.
Practical guidance for residents:
- Watch for potential Trump endorsements in primaries — they can reshape contests.
- Local party committees may vet candidates differently to avoid nationalized, divisive attention.
- Use the moment to emphasize policy issues like economic stability and public safety in local forums.
Reporting notes and sources
This report draws on contemporaneous coverage and primary postings. Sources cited include India Today, ABC17 News, KFGO, and a related video posted online. These sources provided Trump’s posts, Greene’s responses, and context about potential primary challenges and polling.
Preserved facts and URLs are included above for verification and further reading.
