MAGA Infighting: Candace Owens and Jessica Reed Kraus Clash Online

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tensions within the MAGA base have surfaced as influential figures Candace Owens and Jessica Reed Kraus engaged in a heated online dispute, showcasing fractures in the movement. The feud, which unfolded primarily on Instagram, involved the two personalities exchanging barbs over accusations and criticisms related to their political content.

The clash began when Kraus, a self-described “independent media” figure and mommy blogger, criticized Owens for her commentary on the #MeToo movement, particularly focusing on Harvey Weinstein’s trial. Kraus expressed her disillusionment with the handling of the narrative by female commentators, insinuating that Owens was preaching outdated ideas regarding victimhood. “Candace Owens, too, seems to be floundering—re-examining #MeToo through the Weinstein lens as if she just discovered politicized trials,” Kraus commented.

Owens, a prominent right-wing commentator who formerly worked with The Daily Wire and now hosts her own podcast, quickly retaliated by posting her own series of Instagram Stories. “All of Kraus’s friends hate her,” Owens asserted, while Kraus replied with her own jab. “Oops, sorry, couldn’t hear you, too busy touring the White House,” she shot back, emphasizing her proximity to power.

The exchange reflects a deeper ideological struggle within the MAGA movement, as both women not only vie for media relevance but also shape the narrative around female empowerment in conservative politics. Kraus previously presented herself as a champion for women but has faced backlash for her comments and approach toward the #MeToo narrative.

Analysts note that these public disputes among MAGA supporters may signal a significant shift within the base, which has traditionally been characterized by unity behind Donald Trump. Political strategist James Carville remarked about the precarious state of Trump’s support, stating, “It’s collapsing right now, we’re in the midst of a collapse.”

While opinion polls show the Trump administration’s support is declining, the recent feud highlights how internal conflicts can further weaken the base. “Who’s the better conservative? Who’s the better mother? Who’s winning? Who cares?” Kraus and Owens have both become emblematic of this struggle.

Neither influencer has publicly indicated that they intend to reconcile their differences. The exchange serves as a case study in the evolving landscape of conservative media and how personality conflicts can mirror the broader challenges facing the MAGA movement.