Ben Cohen Challenges Democrat War Policies on Tucker Carlson Show

Ben Cohen's Unexpected Appearance on Tucker Carlson

Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's, known for its progressive stances, recently appeared on Tucker Carlson's show to discuss his opposition to U.S. involvement in the Ukraine war. Posted on May 5, 2025, this interview has sparked significant attention due to Cohen's critique of the military-industrial complex and the Democrat-led war machine. Despite ideological differences, Cohen and Carlson found common ground on the need to question America's foreign policy decisions, particularly regarding military spending and ongoing conflicts.

Criticism of U.S. Involvement in Ukraine

At the start of the discussion, around the 1:03 mark, Cohen argues that the war in Ukraine is 'totally unnecessary.' He suggests that diplomatic failures and broken promises, such as expanding NATO despite assurances to Russia, have fueled the conflict. Cohen emphasizes that ignoring Russia's objections over the years has escalated tensions, leading to a preventable war. His perspective challenges the narrative often pushed by mainstream political voices, focusing instead on the importance of dialogue over military action.

The Pentagon's Endless Budget and Lobbying Power

Moving into the conversation at about the 9:58 timestamp, Cohen turns his attention to the Pentagon's massive budget. He points out that the enormous financial resources allocated to defense often overshadow other national priorities like healthcare and education. By the 12:24 mark, he highlights how weapons manufacturers actively lobby Congress to inflate military budgets, a practice he sees as prioritizing profit over public welfare. Cohen's critique underscores a deep concern about the influence of corporate interests on U.S. policy.

Questioning Narratives Around Russia's Motives

At roughly the 16:34 point in the video, Cohen addresses what he calls 'lies about Putin's motives.' He argues that the portrayal of Russia's actions lacks nuance, often ignoring historical context and geopolitical dynamics. This segment of the interview, extending to around 22:58, reflects Cohen's belief that a more honest discussion about international relations could prevent further escalation and loss of life. His comments aim to provoke thought among viewers about the information they receive from traditional media outlets.

A Call for a New Anti-War Movement

By the 30:43 mark, Cohen and Carlson discuss the emergence of a new anti-war party or movement. Cohen expresses hope for a shift in public opinion toward reducing military expenditures and focusing on diplomatic solutions. He laments the lack of critical voices in mainstream discourse, noting that dissenting opinions on military actions are often sidelined. This part of the conversation reveals Cohen's advocacy for peace as a fundamental value, one he believes should guide national policy over endless conflict.

Public Response and Personal Motivations

Around the 43:01 timestamp, the discussion shifts to how the public has responded to Cohen's anti-war stance. While specific reactions aren't detailed in available sources, Cohen acknowledges the controversy his views might stir, given his association with a brand often linked to liberal causes. Later, at approximately 52:52, he explains why he dedicates his time to this issue, citing a personal commitment to fostering peace. By the 1:06:19 mark, Cohen touches on his spiritual motivations, adding a deeper layer to his activism beyond mere politics.

Concerns Over Escalation and Nuclear Risks

One of the more alarming points comes near the 49:02 mark, where Cohen warns that current policies have brought the world dangerously close to nuclear war. He stresses the catastrophic potential of such a conflict, urging a reevaluation of how military engagements are approached. This segment serves as a sobering reminder of the stakes involved, aligning with his broader call for de-escalation and a focus on humanitarian efforts over militarization.

A Broader Reflection on American Values

Toward the end of the interview, around 57:09, Cohen reflects on what it means to be an American, questioning whether the nation's focus on money overshadows core values. At the 1:02:54 point, he ponders if the system can be changed, expressing cautious optimism about grassroots efforts to shift priorities. His dialogue with Carlson, while unexpected given their differing backgrounds, highlights a shared concern for the direction of U.S. policy and its impact on both domestic and global fronts.