National Conservatism Conference: A Deep Dive into the New Right's Ideological Landscape

The National Conservatism Conference, held in Washington, D.C., has emerged as a significant gathering for right-wing ideologues, showcasing a blend of theocratic Christian nationalism, far-right publishing, and influential Republican figures. This year's event highlighted the growing influence of national conservatism within the Republican Party, with Missouri Senator Eric Schmitt proclaiming, “National conservatism is an idea whose time has arrived.” The conference served as a platform for discussing themes such as limited immigration, Christian identity, and the preservation of traditional American culture.

Associated Press

Prominent speakers included members of the Trump administration, such as Tom Homan, the Trump border czar, and Harmeet Dhillon, deputy attorney general, who characterized the Justice Department's civil rights division as “the president’s shock troops.” The conference also featured figures from the Society for American Civic Renewal (SACR), a men-only Christian ultranationalist network, including venture capitalist Nate Fischer and Claremont Institute president Ryan Williams. Their presence raised concerns about the intertwining of far-right ideologies with mainstream Republican politics.

The Guardian

Schmitt's speech emphasized a vision of America as a nation with a distinct history and heritage, arguing against the notion that legal immigration is inherently beneficial. He stated, “America doesn’t belong to them — it belongs to us,” reflecting a broader sentiment among conference attendees that the nation’s identity is under threat from immigration and cultural changes. This perspective aligns with the national conservatism movement's focus on preserving a Christian and ethnically homogeneous America.

Associated Press

The conference also revealed significant divisions within the conservative movement regarding foreign policy, particularly concerning Israel and the U.S. role in the Middle East. Debates between pro-Israel hawks and those advocating for a more restrained approach highlighted tensions over America's entanglements abroad. Curt Mills, editor of The American Conservative, questioned why Israel's conflicts should be America's liabilities, suggesting a growing skepticism towards traditional U.S. foreign policy.

The Daily Signal's 6 Takeaways From NatCon 5

Critics of the national conservatism movement, including Heidi Beirich from the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, have raised alarms about the extremist elements present at the conference. Beirich noted that the event was filled with figures promoting white nationalism and conspiracy theories, indicating a troubling convergence between the far-right and mainstream Republicanism. Katherine Stewart, author of *Money, Lies, and God*, argued that the movement represents a fanatical ideology that undermines democracy and individual rights.

The Guardian

• “National conservatism is an idea whose time has arrived.” — Eric Schmitt, Missouri Senator

Associated Press

• “NatCon is filled with extremists touting white nationalism and conspiracy theories. What is notable is how Trump administration officials and allies are key players in the event, showing that it is near impossible today to distinguish the far right from the administration.” — Heidi Beirich, Global Project Against Hate and Extremism

The Guardian

• “America doesn’t belong to them — it belongs to us,” — Eric Schmitt, Missouri Senator

Associated Press

As national conservatism solidifies its foothold within the Republican Party, the ideological battles over immigration, identity, and foreign policy are likely to shape the party's future. The conference underscored both the triumphs and divisions within the movement, suggesting that while national conservatism has gained prominence, its internal conflicts may pose challenges ahead.

Associated Press