Payam Javan: Former President Donald Trump chose not to take part in the initial presidential debate, defying the Republican National Committee. Instead, he engaged in an extensive pre-recorded interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, which aired simultaneously with the GOP debate. In the interview, Trump discussed his past challenges as both a president and a candidate, as well as his future priorities if re-elected. Emphasizing his outsider image, Trump criticized federal bureaucracy’s power and pledged to challenge conventional views on topics such as environmental regulations, foreign policy, the economy, and election integrity.

During the interview, Carlson inquired twice whether Trump thought he might face an assassination attempt due to his resilience against other forms of opposition. While Trump evaded the question, he labeled those opposed to him as “savage animals.” This concern is heightened by recent events, such as the killing of Ecuadorian candidate Fernando Villavicencio and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s challenge against President Joe Biden.

Amidst deep political divisions, including disputes over the 2020 election’s legitimacy, Carlson raised the possibility of the nation moving toward open conflict or even a second Civil War. Trump didn’t directly address this but acknowledged the unprecedented level of passion and animosity, deeming it a worrisome combination.

Trump’s decision to skip the Milwaukee debate, citing lack of benefit, highlights his significant lead over closest rival Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. The Carlson-Trump interview amassed almost 75 million views within an hour of its posting.