Staff Reports
The 2025 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) served as a triumphant stage for President Donald Trump and his administration, showcasing their aggressive agenda and reaffirming their dominance within the conservative movement. Trump, in his signature style, delivered a fiery speech celebrating his first month back in office, emphasizing his swift actions to dismantle what he described as the bloated federal bureaucracy left by the Biden administration. With a mix of bravado and policy declarations, Trump promised to continue reshaping Washington, declaring that his administration had “shown the radical-left bureaucrats the exit” and was committed to creating a lasting conservative majority.
The event was not just a platform for Trump but also a celebration of conservative victories and priorities. Among the highlights was Vice President JD Vance’s emergence as the overwhelming favorite in the CPAC straw poll for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination. Garnering 61% of the vote, Vance’s popularity underscores his alignment with Trump’s vision while appealing to a broader conservative base. His speech at CPAC reinforced this connection, as he defended the administration’s rapid policy changes and advocated for right-wing immigration reforms, signaling a continuation of Trump’s America First agenda.
CPAC also highlighted the growing influence of international populist leaders within the conservative movement. Argentina’s President Javier Milei and billionaire Elon Musk provided a memorable moment when Milei gifted Musk a chainsaw symbolizing their shared commitment to slashing government bureaucracy. This theatrical display resonated with attendees, reinforcing CPAC’s broader message of reducing government overreach and embracing bold, unconventional leadership. Such moments underscored how Trump’s movement has inspired global conservatives to challenge entrenched institutions.
While CPAC celebrated its successes, it also served as a rallying cry against perceived adversaries. Trump took aim at Joe Biden, whom he accused of leaving behind economic turmoil and a weakened nation. He also reiterated his commitment to combatting “deep state” actors and globalist forces that he claims have undermined American sovereignty. These themes, combined with his unapologetic rhetoric, energized attendees who view Trump as a champion against progressive overreach and an advocate for restoring traditional values.
The conference demonstrated that Trump remains the central figure in conservative politics, but it also highlighted the movement’s evolving dynamics. With figures like JD Vance rising in prominence and international allies joining the fold, CPAC showcased a coalition increasingly united around themes of nationalism, economic populism, and cultural conservatism. For Republicans, this unity offers hope for continued success in upcoming elections, while Democrats face an uphill battle against an energized and cohesive conservative movement.
