One of the overarching themes of the hit reality television program Duck Dynasty has been the Robertsons’ family unity, particularly in areas of faith.
But the fun really sets in when there’s a disagreement. Off-screen, a recent disagreement between Robertson patriarch Phil and his eldest son, Willie, has grabbed the attention of political observers across the country.
Last week, Phil Robertson announced his endorsement for presidential candidate U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), which became the basis for a television ad campaign directed at Christians. A couple days later, Willie Robertson announced his endorsement—for Cruz’ rival, businessman Donald Trump.
They appeared together Monday to discuss the disagreement with FOX News Channel host Sean Hannity.
Phil said he’s supporting Cruz because, as John Adams—he mistakenly attributed the quote to James Madison—said it, the Constitution was written for “a moral and religious people.” He said Cruz stood out as a candidate who was a “moral and religious man.”
Willie, however, said he felt the system was broken, and so he was looking for a candidate who could “shake things up, who can change things up.” He said he thinks Trump is the man for the job because he’s not beholden to donors or lobbyists.
Hannity pointed out that it appears most of the country faces the same question with regard to the Republican presidential field. The Robertsons both said, however, that if the other guy won, they wouldn’t hesitate to support that candidate.
“Think about the alternative here,” Phil said. “Hillary Clinton? Bernie Sanders?”
