Former President Donald Trump has come to the defense of Laura Loomer, a far-right activist, following criticism from his allies regarding their association. Speaking at a press conference in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, Trump affirmed Loomer's support for his campaign and dismissed concerns raised about their relationship.

While lawmakers from both sides of the aisle condemned Loomer for her baseless and inflammatory remarks about immigrants on social media, she maintained a prominent presence alongside Trump, with appearances including a Sept. 11 memorial event in Springfield, Ohio. Sens. Lindsey Graham, Thom Tillis, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, all Republicans, criticized Loomer's remarks, to which she retaliated.

Trump, when asked about Loomer's controversial statements and conspiracy theories, distanced himself, claiming he does not control her actions. However, he acknowledged Loomer's spirited support for his campaign and her discontent with the state of the country.

The scrutiny intensified after Trump mentioned a conspiracy theory about immigrants consuming pets during a debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. This theory, which local officials and police in Springfield have vehemently denied, originated online and gained traction within far-right circles.

NBC News questioned Trump immediately after the press conference regarding his knowledge of Loomer's conspiracy theories. The former president admitted to not being well-versed in the matter, emphasizing that he only knows Loomer as a passionate supporter of his campaign.

In a subsequent Truth Social post, Trump clarified that Loomer does not work for his campaign and is a private citizen. While he acknowledged disagreement with her statements, he connected her sentiment to the frustration felt by millions of his supporters, who are tired of what they perceive as attacks and smears from the radical left.

Loomer herself has not yet responded to requests for comment, and there has been no official statement from the Harris campaign. Apart from her controversial remarks about immigrants, Loomer's posts on social media, including a nod to a conspiracy theory about the 9/11 attacks, have faced criticism.

Marjorie Taylor Greene condemned Loomer's statement about the White House smelling like curry and implied call center facilitation of speeches if Harris wins the presidential election, deeming it "appalling and extremely racist." White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre chimed in during a briefing, stating that no leader should associate with individuals who propagate such racism.

The controversy surrounding Trump and Loomer highlights the ongoing tension within political circles regarding the alignment with far-right figures and the use of inflammatory rhetoric. As the debate continues, the condemnation of Loomer's statements serves as a reminder of the responsibility leaders hold in fostering a discourse that promotes unity and inclusivity.