Top Moments From CPAC 2026 Conference in Texas/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The 2026 CPAC conference in Texas focused heavily on Donald Trump despite his absence. Conservatives debated the Iran war, praised immigration policies, and urged party unity. Midterm election concerns and policy divisions shaped key moments.
CPAC 2026 Quick Looks
- Trump absent but dominates CPAC discussion
- Calls for Republican unity ahead of midterms
- Debate over potential Iran ground invasion
- Pro-Trump chants from Iranian American attendees
- Immigration crackdown receives loud applause
- Conservative leaders warn against party infighting
- Border enforcement officials featured prominently
- Midterm election strategy discussed
- Rising gas prices and war concerns highlighted
- GOP leaders urge focus on Democratic opposition
Deep Look: Top Moments From CPAC 2026 in Texas
GRAPEVINE, Texas — President Donald Trump did not attend this year’s Conservative Political Action Conference, but his influence dominated the gathering as conservatives debated foreign policy, immigration, and party unity ahead of challenging midterm elections.
The annual conference, held in Grapevine, Texas, featured speeches from prominent conservative figures who focused heavily on Trump’s agenda and political future. The tone differed from last year’s event, which celebrated Trump’s return to office and featured Elon Musk symbolically wielding a chain saw to represent government cuts.
This year’s conference highlighted both enthusiasm for Trump’s policies and emerging divisions within the conservative movement.
Calls for Unity
Speakers repeatedly urged conservatives to avoid internal conflicts and focus on upcoming elections.
Mercedes Schlapp, a senior CPAC fellow, warned that political opponents benefit from conservative infighting.
“They want us divided,” she told attendees.
Evangelist Franklin Graham echoed the call for unity, describing the Iran conflict as a defining moment for the country.
“We can discuss our differences, but do it with respect without attacking and tearing down the other person,” Graham said. “Save that for the socialists.”
Conservative commentator Benny Johnson also addressed divisions within the movement but urged supporters to focus on Trump’s accomplishments, particularly on border security and immigration enforcement.
“Your enemy is not the people you have disagreements with inside your movement,” Johnson said. “Your enemy is the Marxist.”
Debate Over Iran War
Despite strong support for Trump overall, the Iran conflict sparked debate among conference participants.
Former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz warned against a potential ground invasion, arguing it could create economic and security risks.
“A ground invasion of Iran will make our country poorer and less safe,” Gaetz said. He also warned of rising gas and food prices tied to prolonged conflict.
Steve Bannon, another Trump ally, said decisions about escalating the conflict ultimately rest with the president but emphasized the need for public support.
“You have to be convinced that this is the right thing to do,” Bannon said, noting the possibility of American troops being deployed to key locations in the Middle East.
Polling from The Associated Press-NORC Center suggests Republicans broadly support airstrikes but remain wary of sending ground troops, highlighting potential political risks.
Pro-War Demonstrations
Hundreds of Iranian American attendees supporting military action against Iran staged spontaneous demonstrations throughout the conference.
Crowds frequently chanted “Thank you, Trump!” during pro-war gatherings.
David Mansouri, an Iranian immigrant living in Texas, described the conflict as a chance to reshape the Middle East.
“It’s the best time to make America great again,” Mansouri said.
Immigration Policies Draw Applause
Trump’s immigration policies received some of the loudest support at the conference.
Former Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino, who previously led controversial enforcement operations, appeared onstage briefly and was greeted with applause.
Actor Dean Cain also joined Bovino onstage, highlighting the event’s blend of political and cultural figures.
Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, also addressed attendees and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to deportation efforts.
“I don’t care if people hate me,” Homan said, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Midterm Elections Loom
The conference underscored Republican concerns about upcoming midterm elections.
Speakers stressed the importance of unity and maintaining momentum on key issues such as immigration, national security, and economic policy.
‘While Trump’s absence marked a departure from recent CPAC gatherings, his influence remained central, with nearly every major speech referencing his policies or political direction.
As conservatives prepare for upcoming elections, the conference revealed both enthusiasm and internal debate — signaling that Trump’s agenda continues to shape the Republican Party’s future.
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