Former Miss California Ousted from Trump's Religious Liberty Commission After Defending Candace Owens
Carrie Prejean Boller, a former Miss California and conservative influencer, has been officially removed from President Donald Trump's Religious Liberty Commission this week. The dismissal followed a contentious hearing where Prejean Boller fiercely defended right-wing personality Candace Owens against allegations of antisemitism.
Heated Exchange During Antisemitism Hearing
During the commission's meeting on Monday, Prejean Boller clashed with other members while arguing that Owens, who has platformed antisemitic conspiracy theories, is not antisemitic. "I listen to her daily, and I haven't heard one thing out of her mouth that I would say is antisemitic," Prejean Boller stated. She engaged in a prolonged debate with Seth Dillon, CEO of The Babylon Bee, over definitions of antisemitism and anti-Zionism.
Prejean Boller contended that criticisms of Israel and Jewish people constitute anti-Zionism rather than antisemitism. Dillon countered that context is crucial, noting some individuals "try to conceal their antisemitism under the guise of merely criticizing Israel." Owens has denied hating Jewish people but has shared conspiracy theories about Jewish replacement of Christians and media control.
Commission Chairman Announces Removal
On Wednesday, commission chairman and Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick confirmed Prejean Boller's removal, citing her hijacking of the hearing for personal agenda. "No member of the Commission has the right to hijack a hearing for their own personal and political agenda on any issue. This is clearly, without question, what happened Monday in our hearing on antisemitism in America. This was my decision," Patrick declared.
Prejean Boller disputed the authority of this action, asserting only Trump could remove her. "You are speaking without authority, and it is clear your actions reflect a Zionist political agenda, not the President's, not the U.S. Constitution's, and not the purpose of this Commission," she responded. As of Thursday afternoon, the Justice Department's website still listed her as a commission member.
Broader Context and Controversies
Trump's Religious Liberty Commission, established in May 2025, aims to identify threats to domestic religious freedom and recommend protective measures. However, it has faced criticism for lack of diversity, with only one Muslim member and no Sikh representatives, prompting a lawsuit from Interfaith Alliances.
The Trump administration prioritizes cracking down on antisemitism, especially after 2024 pro-Palestinian protests at colleges. Yet, Republicans are increasingly divided over defining antisemitism, particularly regarding criticism of Israel. This split echoes recent controversies, such as Tucker Carlson's interview with white supremacist Nick Fuentes, which drew mixed reactions from conservative figures like Kevin Roberts of The Heritage Foundation.
