Divisions Emerge at CPAC 2026 Amid Ongoing Iran Conflict

The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) 2026, held in Grapevine, Texas, has become a focal point for divisions within the Republican Party, particularly regarding the ongoing military conflict in Iran. As the conference unfolds, attendees express mixed feelings about the war, revealing a rift between traditional supporters of former President Donald Trump and a younger faction advocating for an "America First" approach.

Reuters

The U.S. military's involvement in Iran has sparked significant debate among conservatives, with some attendees at CPAC criticizing Trump's decision to engage in military action. This conflict, which began with airstrikes in February 2026, has led to rising gas prices and growing discontent among voters, particularly younger conservatives who feel betrayed by what they perceive as a departure from Trump's original campaign promises to avoid foreign entanglements.

Alternet

Prominent figures at CPAC included Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has been vocal in his support for Trump, and Steve Bannon, a former Trump strategist who expressed skepticism about the war. Bannon emphasized the need for conservatives to engage in discussions about the implications of military action, particularly regarding potential troop deployments. Meanwhile, attendees like Erik Prince warned of the dangers of prolonged conflict, highlighting the generational divide within the party.

Takeaways from Day 2 of CPAC 2026

Younger conservatives at CPAC have voiced strong opposition to the war, viewing it as a betrayal of the "America First" ethos. Some attendees expressed concerns about the potential for increased military involvement, with one college student stating that the prospect of ground troops "keeps him up at night." This sentiment contrasts sharply with older attendees who tend to support military intervention as a necessary measure against threats from Iran.

Dallas Observer

CPAC chairman Matt Schlapp acknowledged the internal tensions, urging unity among attendees to secure Republican victories in the upcoming midterm elections. He emphasized the importance of presenting a cohesive front, despite the evident divisions over foreign policy. Meanwhile, Trump's absence from the conference has raised questions about his influence moving forward, as many attendees await his endorsement in key races.

Reuters

While a majority of CPAC attendees continue to support Trump, there is a notable decline in enthusiasm, particularly among younger voters. Polls indicate that while nearly 90% of Trump’s base backs his war efforts, many are increasingly concerned about economic issues and the implications of military action. This duality reflects a broader struggle within the party to reconcile traditional conservative values with the evolving priorities of its younger members.

Alternet

As CPAC concludes, the Republican Party faces critical decisions regarding its direction and response to the Iran conflict. The upcoming midterm elections will serve as a litmus test for the party's unity and the effectiveness of its messaging in addressing both domestic and foreign policy concerns. The ongoing debate over military intervention in Iran will likely continue to shape the party's landscape as it navigates these challenges.

Reuters