But this year's lineup has an added geopolitical edge, with exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi emerging as a figure of intense interest. Despite the distractions, CPAC remains a central showcase for conservative politics -- a stage where established figures and rising voices compete for attention, and where the movement's priorities are sharpened ahead of November's elections. Last year's gathering emphasized ideological purity, fights against "woke indoctrination" and a hard-edged "Make America Great Again," or MAGA, identity. Beyond Trump and Pahlavi, the speaker roster underscores the breadth -- and tensions -- within today's conservative movement. North Carolina Senate candidate Michael Whatley, a key Trump ally, is likely to use the stage to sharpen the party's midterm message, particularly on election integrity and turnout.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha March 24, 2026 03:12 UTC