Full Breakdown
Divisions Emerge at CPAC 2026 Over Trump’s Iran War
3/31/2026, 5:18:57 AM
Core Event: Tensions at CPAC Amidst the Iran Conflict
The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) 2026, held from March 25-28 in Grapevine, Texas, highlighted significant divisions within the Republican Party regarding President Donald Trump’s military actions in Iran. For the first time in a decade, Trump did not attend the conference, which coincided with ongoing U.S. military strikes against Iran that have sparked discontent among younger conservatives who feel betrayed by his foreign policy shift.
Background & Context: The Iran War and Its Impact
The U.S. military campaign against Iran commenced in late February 2026, aiming to dismantle the Iranian regime and curb its nuclear ambitions. While polling indicates that a majority of Americans oppose the war, many Republican attendees at CPAC expressed support for Trump’s actions. However, this support appears to be waning among younger conservatives, who are increasingly vocal about their discontent with the prospect of prolonged military engagement.
Generational Divide: Young vs. Older Conservatives
At CPAC, a stark generational divide emerged. Older attendees largely supported the war, viewing it as a necessary response to long-standing threats from Iran. In contrast, younger conservatives expressed feelings of betrayal, citing Trump’s previous promises to avoid foreign entanglements. Joseph Bolick, a 30-year-old veteran, articulated this sentiment, stating, “I feel betrayed because he promised no new wars.” Many younger attendees voiced concerns about the economic implications of the conflict, particularly rising gas prices.
Key Figures & Groups: Voices of Support and Dissent
Prominent figures at CPAC included former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz and Steve Bannon, both of whom cautioned against a ground invasion of Iran. Gaetz warned that such an action would make the U.S. “poorer and less safe,” while Bannon emphasized the need for a clear strategy moving forward. Conversely, exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi received enthusiastic support from attendees, urging continued military pressure on the Iranian regime.
Official Statements & Responses: Party Leadership's Call for Unity
CPAC Chairman Matt Schlapp acknowledged the divisions within the party, urging attendees to remain united despite differing opinions on the Iran war. He stated, “We cannot divide from within,” highlighting the importance of solidarity as the Republican Party approaches the midterm elections.
Criticism & Opposition: Voices of Dissent
Despite the overall support for Trump’s policies, dissenting voices were evident. Influential conservative commentators like Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly have openly criticized the war, resonating with younger conservatives who feel that the conflict contradicts the “America First” principles championed by Trump. Benjamin Williams, a 25-year-old marketing specialist, expressed frustration, saying, “We did not want to see more wars. It does feel like a betrayal, for sure.”
What's Next: Implications for the Republican Party
As the GOP prepares for the 2028 presidential election, the divisions highlighted at CPAC could have significant implications for party unity and voter turnout. The conference's straw poll indicated Vice President JD Vance leading with 53% support for the 2028 nomination, followed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio at 35%. This shift suggests a potential reorientation of the party as it grapples with the legacy of Trump and the ongoing conflict in Iran.
Verbatim Quotes
- “) sounded a discordant note, saying, “A ground invasion of Iran will make our country poorer and less safe.” — Matt Gaetz, Former Congressman
- “We did not want to see more wars. We wanted actual America First policies, and Trump was very explicit about that,” — Benjamin Williams, Young Americans for Liberty
- “And if you want to be part of the in crowd, it is mandatory that you must hate her, too.” — Brandon Straka, Right-Wing Commentator
- “Your sons, daughters, granddaughters, grandsons could be on Kharg Island and holding a beachhead on the Strait of Hormuz.” — Steve Bannon, Former White House Strategist
The ongoing tensions within the Republican Party, particularly regarding Trump’s military actions, will likely shape the political landscape as the midterm elections approach, highlighting the need for a cohesive strategy that addresses the concerns of both older and younger conservatives.
