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Trump and Vance Absent at Divisive CPAC 2026

3/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump did not attend CPAC 2026 in Grapevine, Texas.
Vice President JD Vance was also absent, underscoring divisions within the GOP.
The event drew mixed attendance and raised concerns about party direction amid the ongoing Iran war.
Discussions showed a split on military intervention, with younger attendees skeptical and older members more supportive.

History

Historical Context

The 1964 Republican National Convention, held from July 13-16 in San Francisco, showcased a fierce ideological battle between conservatives led by Barry Goldwater and moderates like Nelson Rockefeller. Goldwater's nomination, despite his later landslide defeat to Lyndon B. Johnson, signaled a shift towards a more conservative GOP. This division continues to resonate today, as seen in the absence of key figures at CPAC 2026.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump did not attend CPAC 2026 in Grapevine, Texas.
Vice President JD Vance was also absent, underscoring divisions within the GOP.
The event drew mixed attendance and raised concerns about party direction amid the ongoing Iran war.
Discussions showed a split on military intervention, with younger attendees skeptical and older members more supportive.

1 / 2