Candace Owens & Donald Trump: From MAGA Champion to Vocal Critic

Candace Owens rose to prominence as one of Donald Trump’s most fervent defenders, but in 2025, her tone toward the former president shifted dramatically—from unwavering support to public disappointment. Here’s a detailed look at her relationship with Trump and how it evolved over time.

Early Support: The Rise as a Trump Ally

Candace Owens first gained attention in 2017–2018 as a young conservative voice. She joined Turning Point USA as Director of Urban Engagement and launched her YouTube channel Red Pill Black, preaching black conservatism and criticizing liberal policies and identity politics. President Trump publicly praised her as a “very smart thinker,” describing her influence on the political landscape as impactful.

Why Owens Initially Supported Trump

Candace credited economic conservatism and Trump’s rhetoric as key reasons for her support. She believed Trump would champion free-market policies and encourage black voters to break from the Democratic Party narrative.

Public Endorsements & Blexit Movement

Owens endorsed Trump in the 2020 and 2024 campaigns, aligning her brand with the MAGA movement. She also founded Blexit, encouraging Black Americans to leave the Democratic Party, initially gaining traction with celebrity support like Kanye West, though West later distanced himself from the campaign.

Turning Point: Criticism Begins

In 2025, Owens began publicly distancing herself from Trump. She criticized his administration’s crackdown on free speech, particularly in its targeting of universities and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) programs. On The Grio, she declared, “I don’t recognize this administration right now,” stating she’s now rooting for universities over Trump’s policies.

Regret & Disillusionment

Owens expressed regret for her vocal support of Trump, calling it a mistake. On Piers Morgan Uncensored, she called him a “chronic disappointment” and said she was “embarrassed” for encouraging people to vote for him—even if she maintained he was a better option than Biden or Harris.

Free Speech Friction

Owens took particular issue with Trump’s conflict with Harvard University over free speech. She criticized the administration for suppressing campus speech while claiming to defend it—calling the approach hypocritical and dangerous for future dissenting voices.

From MAGA Insider to Conservative Critic

By early 2025, Owens had fully disavowed mainstream MAGA leadership. Prominent far-right figures, including Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, and Marjorie Taylor Greene, echoed similar frustrations, accusing Trump of abandoning his anti-war and populist pledges.

 Summary Table

Why It Matters

Candace Owens’ turn from Trump supporter to critic highlights growing discontent within right-wing circles over perceived ideological betrayals. Her journey also underscores a wider schism between populist conservatism and political pragmatism.