Trump gives evasive answer on why far-right activist Laura Loomer has joined his entourage amid Republican warnings

When Donald Trump was asked about the concerns voiced by his Republican colleagues regarding his recent associations with far-right activist Laura Loomer, the former president stumbled to provide a concrete answer, instead calling her a “supporter” five times.

The question comes after Loomer, notorious for pushing outrageous conspiracy theories and racist rhetoric, joined Trump on his plane to Philadelphia ahead of his debate against Kamala Harris on Tuesday. She also attended the 9/11 memorial ceremony in New York — despite previously claiming that the terror attacks were an “inside job.” Their recent associations have prompted a few notable Trump allies to warn that he should distance himself from such a polarizing figure, especially as the election nears.

“Well I don’t know what they would say. Laura’s been a supporter. Just like a lot of people are supporters. She speaks very positively of the campaign,” Trump said during a news conference at his Los Angeles golf resort on Friday evening. “I can’t tell Laura what to do. She’s a free spirit.”

By frequently describing her as a “supporter,” Trump seemed to be putting a distance between the campaign and Loomer.

The reporter pushed, saying: “Laura Loomer is traveling with you on your plane… She made racist remarks about your opponent. She has also espoused 9/11 conspiracies. Do you disavow those remarks?”

“I have to see what those remarks are,” Trump defended. “I don’t even know what you’re talking about. She may have said something based on what you’re telling me.

“I‘ll go take a look and I’ll put out a statement later on.”

Since Loomer’s recent appearances alongside the former president, Trump ally Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene, who is also a far-right conspiracy theorist