

The Right-Wing Provocateur Who Has Trump’s Ear
213 snips Aug 21, 2025
Ken Bensinger, a New York Times reporter specializing in media and politics, discusses Laura Loomer's meteoric rise within right-wing circles and her role as a key adviser to Trump. The conversation unpacks how Loomer regained influence after being deplatformed and her provocative tactics in confronting figures like Ron DeSantis. Bensinger reveals her impact on significant personnel changes in the Trump administration and the complexities of loyalty within the GOP, painting a vivid picture of the turbulent political landscape shaped by her controversial methods.
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From Provocateur To Power Broker
- Ken Bensinger found Loomer shifted from noise to direct influence after being reactivated on social platforms.
- She now can get people fired and shape policy without holding a government position.
Early Viral Breakthrough At College
- Loomer's early viral moment came from ripping up a college program and posting about an imam at a 9-11 event.
- Project Veritas and right-wing media amplified her, launching her public career in undercover 'gotcha' videos.
Deplatforming Reversed By Platform Change
- Elon Musk's purchase of Twitter restored deplatformed voices and reunited Loomer and Trump with broad reach.
- Reactivation gave Loomer the amplification she needed to pivot into vetting and campaign influence.