Matt Gaetz’s Mother Warns Him Over Trump Criticism

A viral TikTok video recorded on a flight showed former congressman and current TV host Matt Gaetz in a heated text exchange with his mother, Victoria Gaetz, over his public criticism of Donald Trump’s actions regarding Iran. Victoria Gaetz warned her son that criticizing Trump could alienate the MAGA base, threaten his media career, and be seen as a betrayal by Trump, urging caution. Gaetz argued he was trying to guide Trump rather than attack him and defended his skepticism about U.S. military intervention in Iran, referencing historical examples. The conversation also mentioned Gaetz’s greater financial security and increased freedom to express his views since leaving Congress. Gaetz confirmed the authenticity of the video and texts, publicly encouraging people to 'call your mother' and use privacy screens. The incident illustrates ongoing divisions within MAGA circles over foreign policy and the personal pressures faced by public figures regarding Trump-era loyalty.