Tucker Carlson named keynote speaker at conservative Iowa conference

Washington Post

Apr. 26, 2022 4:13 pm

Bob Vander Plaats, president and CEO of The Family Leader, discusses the 2024 Republican presidential primary during the July 9, 2021, taping of “Iowa Press” at Iowa PBS studios in Johnston. (Kay Henderson/Radio Iowa)

Fox News host Tucker Carlson is raising eyebrows over his future in politics with the news that he will deliver a keynote speech at this year's Family Leadership Summit in Iowa - a forum that has traditionally been the gathering ground for Republicans with presidential ambitions.

The event, described as a "chance" for conservatives to be "encouraged, inspired, and equipped to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness in America today," had Donald Trump as a speaker in 2015. Speakers last year included former Vice President Mike Pence, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem. All three have been floated as potential 2024 Republican candidates.

This year's summit, which will be held July 15 in Des Moines, so far does not include other major political newsmakers on its roster. Bob Vander Plaats, president of The Family Leader, said more speakers will be announced, according to the Iowa Torch.