The ongoing military campaign in Iran has sparked a significant shift in sentiment among American conservatives, especially as the war enters its fourth week. While many Republicans have historically supported President Trump’s foreign policy decisions, cracks are beginning to show, particularly among younger party members who are questioning the rationale behind the conflict and advocating for a focus on domestic issues.
Rising Concerns at CPAC
At the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held in Dallas, Texas, attendees voiced their apprehensions regarding the US’s military involvement in Iran. Samantha Cassell, a Dallas resident attending her first CPAC, expressed a desire for greater transparency about the war’s objectives. She stated, “I wish there was more clarity on what we are doing so I could feel comfortable sending loved ones overseas.” Cassell highlighted the rising cost of living as a pressing concern, emphasising the impact of the conflict on oil and gas prices.
Joe Bolick, another first-time attendee, echoed her worries, questioning the long-term goals of the campaign. “I don’t see an endgame yet,” he remarked. “What are we actually trying to achieve? Is it true regime change? What does that look like?” This sentiment reflects a growing unease within the party, particularly among younger conservatives who are increasingly sceptical of interventionist policies.
A Shifting Conference Landscape
This year’s CPAC deviated from its usual location near Washington, D.C., moving to a large hotel complex in Texas. The atmosphere, while familiar, was tinged with discussions surrounding the ongoing conflict. The event featured an array of conservative-themed merchandise, but the war in Iran was unmistakably a topic of significant concern among attendees.
Many younger conservatives, such as Toby Blair, a 19-year-old student, articulated a desire for the US to focus on domestic challenges rather than foreign conflicts. “I don’t like that it’s become America’s job to find bad people and get rid of them,” he noted, emphasising the need for the government to address pressing issues at home, like soaring grocery prices.
Meanwhile, older attendees, particularly those aligned with the “Trump Tribe of Texas,” expressed unwavering support for the president’s actions. Michael Manuel-Reaud, the group’s founder, maintained that Iran represents an existential threat that must be addressed decisively. “If there’s a threat of a nuclear bomb, who can say no to that?” he argued, insisting that Trump would not retreat until the situation was resolved.
Voices from the Iranian-American Community
Amidst the conference, Iranian-Americans passionately supported the US military operations, celebrating the prospect of regime change in Iran. This fervour was evident as attendees chanted “Thank you Trump” and called for liberation from the current Iranian regime. Nima Poursohi, donning a “Persians for Trump” T-shirt, expressed optimism about the conflict, stating, “It’s refreshing to see the people of Iran finally having a shot at liberation after 47 years of oppression.”
The enthusiasm of Iranian-American supporters contrasted starkly with the reservations expressed by other conservatives at the conference. Matt Schlapp, president of the American Conservative Union and CPAC organiser, acknowledged this divide, noting that while many trust Trump, there are significant concerns about the future trajectory of the conflict.
Growing Anxiety Among Conservatives
The CPAC conference highlighted a growing division in the Republican Party regarding the Iran war. While a Pew Research poll indicated that 79% of Republicans approve of Trump’s handling of the situation, only 49% express strong approval, with a sharp decline to 22% among those who lean Republican. This generational gap is particularly pronounced, as only 49% of younger Republicans, aged 18 to 29, support the president’s foreign policy.
Former Congressman Matt Gaetz voiced caution regarding the implications of escalating military involvement, warning that a ground invasion could lead to increased costs and heightened risks for the US. His warnings resonated with a portion of the audience, reflecting a broader anxiety about the potential consequences of prolonged military engagement.
Why it Matters
The evolving dynamics within the Republican Party reveal a significant generational divide that could have lasting implications for Trump’s political future and the party’s strategy moving forward. With younger conservatives increasingly questioning the rationale behind military interventions, the pressure mounts on Trump to find a path out of the Iranian conflict. This internal discord could hinder voter enthusiasm and turnout in the upcoming midterm elections, raising questions about the sustainability of Trump’s support amidst a backdrop of rising domestic challenges and foreign entanglements.