Full Breakdown
CPAC 2026: A Divided Conservative Response to War with Iran
3/28/2026, 10:38:00 PM
Core Event: Trump’s Absence and the Conference’s Focus
The 2026 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Grapevine, Texas, marked the first time in nearly a decade that former President Donald Trump did not attend this major conservative gathering. Despite his absence, the conference was heavily centered around Trump's influence, particularly regarding the ongoing U.S. military actions in Iran. Attendees expressed a mix of support and concern over the war, reflecting a significant division within the conservative movement.
Key Themes and Perspectives
Throughout the conference, speakers emphasized the need for unity among conservatives, warning against internal divisions as the Republican Party approaches the midterm elections. Mercedes Schlapp, a senior fellow at CPAC, cautioned, “They want us divided,” while Franklin Graham highlighted the war with Iran as a “critical time for our country.” Conservative influencer Benny Johnson urged attendees to focus on Trump's successes, particularly in immigration, framing internal disagreements as secondary to the larger fight against perceived socialist threats.
However, the conference revealed a split in opinions regarding the military conflict. While some attendees supported the war as a necessary action against Iranian aggression, others voiced concerns about the potential for a prolonged conflict. Former Florida Representative Matt Gaetz warned that a ground invasion could lead to economic repercussions, stating, “It will make our country poorer and less safe.”
Support for Military Action
Many attendees framed the military actions against Iran as consistent with Trump's "America First" doctrine, arguing that swift military action was justified. Serena Devoogd, a conservative social media influencer and Army veteran, remarked, “This was something that needed to get done.” Polling data indicated that a significant portion of self-identified MAGA voters supported military action, with recent surveys showing approval ratings as high as 92 percent among attendees.
David Mansouri, an Iranian immigrant, described the conflict as a “war of liberation,” suggesting that it could foster a new ally for the U.S. in the Middle East. The presence of pro-war demonstrators at the conference underscored the enthusiasm among certain factions for a robust military response.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the prevailing support for military action, dissenting voices were present, albeit on the margins. Some attendees expressed concerns over the potential for an open-ended conflict, with Razi Marshall, a Young Republican, warning that the war could lead to costly interventions. “It doesn’t help the United States in any way,” he stated, reflecting a sentiment that could resonate if the conflict drags on.
Official Statements & Responses
The conference highlighted the tension between traditional hawkish views and the populist sentiments that have characterized Trump's base. While many attendees supported the military actions, there were calls for caution regarding the duration and implications of the conflict. Steve Bannon, a Trump ally, emphasized the need for public support, stating, “You have to be convinced that this is the right thing to do.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “They want us divided,” — Mercedes Schlapp, Senior Fellow at CPAC
- “A ground invasion of Iran will make our country poorer and less safe.” — Matt Gaetz, Former Florida Representative
- “And so it was a long time coming — this was something that needed to get done,” — Serena Devoogd, Conservative Influencer
- “It doesn't help the United States in any way.” — Razi Marshall, Young Republican
The CPAC 2026 conference illustrated the complexities within the conservative movement as it grapples with foreign policy under Trump's shadow, revealing both strong support for military action and underlying concerns about its potential consequences.
