CPAC Texas: A Crucial Gathering Amidst GOP Tensions

The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) is set to take place in Grapevine, Texas, beginning Wednesday, featuring a mix of Republican candidates, influencers, and Trump administration officials. This year's event is particularly significant due to the ongoing Texas Senate Republican primary runoff between state Attorney General Ken Paxton and incumbent Senator John Cornyn. The conference is expected to reflect the current political climate, marked by tensions over the war in Iran and the looming 2028 GOP presidential race.

The Hill

Ken Paxton, who has positioned himself as the more Trump-aligned candidate, is scheduled to speak at CPAC's Ronald Reagan Dinner. He has actively called for changes in Senate filibuster rules to support President Trump's legislative priorities, including a proof-of-citizenship requirement for voter registration. In contrast, John Cornyn, who has received backing from Senate Republicans' campaign arm, has not confirmed his attendance at the conference, despite pressure from CPAC to do so. The dynamics between these two candidates are critical, as they could influence the Republican Party's chances in the upcoming general election against Democratic state Representative James Talarico.

The Hill

The conference will also serve as a platform for discussions surrounding the war in Iran, which has sparked division among Trump supporters. While some Republicans express concern about the conflict's impact on voter sentiment, others, like Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts, view the internal disagreements as beneficial for the party. Notably, Trump has maintained a neutral stance in the Paxton-Cornyn race, although he has praised both candidates in the past.

The Hill

As CPAC attendees gather, speculation about the GOP's future leadership is expected to intensify. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are emerging as potential frontrunners for the 2028 presidential nomination. Trump has recently commended Rubio's performance, suggesting a shift in his endorsement preferences.

The Hill

CPAC has emphasized the importance of the Texas Senate race, urging Cornyn to participate in the conference. The organization highlighted Paxton's perfect CPAC score, contrasting it with Cornyn's 85 percent score. Meanwhile, Trump's comments on the Iran conflict indicate a complex relationship with his base, as he attempts to balance support for his policies with the realities of voter concerns.

The Hill

• “Paxton has accepted the invite to speak at CPAC, Cornyn still has not. Let’s get it scheduled.” — CPAC Social Media Post

The Hill

• “Marco Rubio is doing a great job. I think he’s going to go down as the greatest secretary of State in history,” — Donald Trump, Former President

The Hill

CPAC will conduct its annual straw poll, providing insight into the preferences of Trump-aligned Republicans as the party prepares for the 2028 election cycle. The event will also feature speeches from various conservative figures, including former White House strategist Steve Bannon and other GOP Senate hopefuls, further shaping the narrative leading into November's elections.

The Hill