In a surprising twist of events, Joe Exotic, the infamous 'Tiger King,' has spoken out from behind bars offering political advice to Donald Trump ahead of the election against Kamala Harris.
From his cell, Joe Exotic critiqued the political landscape for the upcoming election, simultaneously hoping for a presidential pardon and a role in federal office, Mail Online reported.
Currently serving a 21-year sentence at FMC Fort Worth in Texas, Joseph Allen Maldonado, better known as Joe Exotic, became a household name through the 2020 Netflix documentary 'Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness.' His legal troubles stem from a murder-for-hire plot targeting wildlife activist Carole Baskin and multiple violations of federal conservation laws linked to his big cat zoo.
During the recent jailhouse interview with Newsweek, Exotic expressed strong opinions regarding both presidential candidates but directed specific advice toward Donald Trump. His critique of Kamala Harris was stark, claiming she would never receive his support.
Exotic outlined his views on America's economic hardships under the current administration and offered his perspective on solving these issues. He emphasized the importance of independence in natural resource production and suggested that America should focus more on self-sustenance through local oil, gas, and coal production.
"[Trump] has to explain to the people what we can do to better the lives of the American people," Exotic stated during the interview, adding, "We can't afford gas, we can't afford rent, we can't afford food. We have to give back to where the American people can take care of the American people."
Despite his controversial reputation and ongoing incarceration, Exotic hasn't shied away from grand aspirations. He boldly claimed he wanted to become the director of the Federal Fish and Wildlife Service, despite a legal barrier due to his felony conviction. He argued that the Endangered Species Act, which he claims to know nearly word-for-word, is overregulated and that he could save the country money is in charge.
The conviction that brought him to national attention was not just for his murder-for-hire plot but also for breaches in federal wildlife laws, specifically in the management of large cats at his private zoo. This conviction has spurred Exotic to seek a complete overturn of his case, appealing against both the murder-for-hire conviction and the wildlife violations.
Adding to his tumultuous life, Exotic recently revealed his battle with prostate cancer and possible lung cancer, which has placed a renewed spotlight on his struggles while incarcerated.
In his interview, Exotic also referenced his previous presidential run as a Democrat and reiterated his desire for a presidential pardon—a wish that has remained unfulfilled. He expressed continued support for Trump if he refocuses his campaign on policy rather than rhetoric.
"If he would just explain some of this to the American public, he would win on a landslide," Exotic confidently claimed, suggesting that Trump's path to victory lies in clear communication about his policies and their benefits to the average person.
"I think over the next 60 days, the momentum on Harris will die down and people will start seeing and hearing the truth," he added, indicating his belief in a potential shift in public opinion as the election approaches.
Throughout the interview, Exotic repeatedly denounced Carole Baskin, reflecting on their bitter feud that culminated in his incarceration. "I just wanted her out of my hair and to leave me alone," he said, also accusing her once more of being involved in her husband's mysterious disappearance—a claim that has fueled widespread media speculation and public intrigue.
Exotic's remarks showcase not only his unfiltered opinions but also hint at the emotional toll his legal and health battles have taken on him. He stands at a complex intersection of fame, legal struggle, and serious health issues, which have kept him in the public eye long after the conclusion of the Netflix series that made him famous.
