CPAC 2026: A Shift in Dynamics and Focus

The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) 2026, held in Grapevine, Texas, marked a significant departure from previous years, particularly due to the absence of former President Donald Trump, who did not attend for the first time in a decade. This year's event, which concluded on Saturday, showcased a gathering that felt less vibrant and more habitual, reflecting ongoing divisions within the Republican Party.

Slate

Historically, CPAC has served as a key gathering for conservative activists, political figures, and media personalities. However, the 2026 iteration lacked the usual excitement and engagement. Attendance was reportedly low, with fewer students and notable political figures present. The event's relocation from Washington, D.C., to Texas contributed to this decline, as it became less accessible for many political dignitaries. Notably, the most prominent speaker was Robert F. Kennedy Jr., highlighting the diminished star power compared to past conferences.

Slate

CPAC 2026 also featured a notable international presence, particularly from Iranian monarchists who attended for a scheduled speech by Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah of Iran. This influx of attendees, who rallied around the slogan "Javid Shah!" during Pahlavi's speech, contrasted sharply with the overall lack of enthusiasm at the conference. The event included various international figures, but many were perceived as lacking the influence of past speakers, such as Nigel Farage.

Slate

A central theme at CPAC 2026 was the ongoing military campaign in Iran, which has become a contentious issue among conservatives. While many speakers expressed support for Trump's "America First" policies, a growing number of attendees voiced skepticism regarding military operations. Former Representative Matt Gaetz cautioned against a ground invasion, arguing it could harm the economy and lead to higher prices for consumers. Conversely, Reza Pahlavi defended Trump's actions, attributing the current situation to the president's resolve.

The Hill

The White House has indicated a winding down of military operations in Iran, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that core objectives have been met. However, public sentiment remains divided, with a Pew Research Center survey indicating that 60% of Americans disapprove of U.S. actions in Iran. Among Republican voters, support for the conflict is stronger, but generational divides are evident, with younger conservatives expressing disappointment over military engagements.

The Hill

Critics of CPAC 2026 noted the event's lack of energy and engagement, with some attendees describing the atmosphere as "sh**ty." The absence of key Trump administration officials and the overall decline in attendance were attributed to rising fuel costs and dissatisfaction with the current military strategy. Additionally, CPAC Chairman Matt Schlapp faced backlash after his attempt to rally the crowd around impeachment hearings was met with mixed reactions.

LGBTQ Nation

CPAC 2026 illustrated the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party, highlighting both the challenges and divisions that lie ahead. The absence of Donald Trump and the mixed reception of military actions in Iran signal a potential shift in the conservative movement's priorities and strategies as it navigates an increasingly complex political landscape.

The Hill