Trump’s CPAC Speech Outlines Vision for Potential New Term

Donald Trump’s speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) laid out his vision for a potential new presidential term. He addressed several key points:

• Criticism of Biden administration policies, particularly their handling of the Ukraine conflict and foreign aid distribution
• Promise to end the war in Ukraine and reduce U.S. foreign aid
• Distancing from past Republican leaders like Paul Ryan, Karl Rove, and Jeb Bush
• Rallying his base around a new conservative vision

Trump’s speech touched on familiar themes, including claims about the 2020 election. He made specific pledges for his future presidency, focusing on issues like border security and energy independence.

The former president described his administration’s actions on immigration as a response to an “invasion” and emphasized plans for large-scale deportations.

The CPAC environment reflected strong support for Trump’s ideology, with attendees showcasing their devotion through Trump-centered slogans and attire. The event demonstrated Trump’s continued influence within conservative circles.

CPAC Atmosphere and International Presence

CPAC attendees, adorned in MAGA caps and patriotic attire, created an atmosphere of unwavering support for Trump. Their enthusiasm was evident in the cheers and chants that filled the convention center.

Notable figures, including former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, attended the event, highlighting the international appeal of Trump’s political ideology. Their presence underscored the global nature of the conservative movement represented at CPAC.

The crowd’s reactions to Trump’s policy statements on immigration, foreign relations, and economic strategy reinforced the idea that CPAC was more than just a meeting; it was a movement. Some attendees, like Michael Boatman, expressed support for both Trump and potential future leaders like DeSantis:

Presidents As Kids!

Donald Trump – 45/47th President (2017-2020 / 2025-present)

Joe Biden – 46th President (2021-2024)

George W. Bush – 43rd President (2001–2009)

Jimmy Carter – 39th President (1977–1981)

Bill Clinton – 42nd President (1993–2001)

Gerald Ford – 38th President (1974–1977)

George H. W. Bush – 41st President (1989–1993)

John F. Kennedy – 35th President (1961–1963)

Lyndon B. Johnson – 36th President (1963–1969)

Richard Nixon – 37th President (1969–1974)

Barack Obama – 44th President (2009–2017)

Ronald Reagan – 40th President (1981–1989)

❮ ❯

"He needs to finish his term in Florida, and then in 2028 run. Let Trump get his four years in."

CPAC served as a crucial platform for Trump’s campaign strategy, showcasing his dominance in conservative politics. The event’s evolution from a domestic conservative gathering to a global conservative forum was apparent, with international leaders praising Trump’s approach to sovereignty and traditional values.

Republican Party Divisions and Ideological Shifts

CPAC highlighted divisions within the Republican Party, as evidenced by the absence of key figures like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. While CPAC remains a conservative stronghold, this year’s event revealed underlying tensions within the party.

DeSantis and other notable Republicans opted to attend an alternative event hosted by the Club for Growth, signaling a strategic distancing from CPAC’s Trump-centric focus. This divergence illustrates an emerging split as some conservatives seek to chart paths distinct from Trump’s influence.

The absence of traditional Republican leaders like former Vice President Mike Pence suggests a complex landscape within the GOP. These absences, while not outright rejections, indicate a recalibration of political alliances and strategies.

Evolving Definitions of Conservatism

This ideological schism points to evolving definitions of conservatism. The traditional conservative orthodoxy is being redefined, with values such as Trump’s assertive nationalism gaining prominence. Yet, discussions about potential alternatives reflect ongoing debates about the party’s trajectory.

The Republican Party now grapples with internal divisions, defining both present and future leadership. Key questions shaping the path forward for the GOP include:

• Who will lead the party?
• What principles will dominate?
• How will the party unify its diverse bases under a coherent ideological banner?

As the conservative movement continues to evolve, CPAC serves as a microcosm of the broader changes within Republican politics, reflecting both the enduring influence of Trump and the emerging tensions that may shape the party’s future.

1. Walrath J. What is happening in the hearts of former President Donald Trump’s supporters? The Conversation. 2024.
2. C-SPAN. Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), Donald Trump. C-SPAN.org. 2024.
3. Politico Staff. Trump is scheduled to deliver remarks today at the Conservative Political Action Conference. Politico. 2024.
4. Montanaro D. Former President Donald Trump speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). NPR. 2024.
5. Pengelly M. JD Vance marked one month since the Trump administration returned to power. The Guardian. 2024.
6. Helmore E. Donald Trump delivered the more-than-hour-long finale at the Conservative Political Action Conference. The Guardian. 2024.