

“The Old Man and the CPAC.”
Mar 7, 2023
Dave Weigel, a Semafor reporter known for his keen insights into conservative politics, joins the conversation to dissect the recent chaos at CPAC. He discusses Trump’s unwavering dominance and the implications of his legal troubles on the GOP landscape. Weigel also sheds light on DeSantis's contrasting narrative in California and the shifting dynamics within the Republican base. The dialogue explores the heightened focus on China and the troubling rise of anti-trans rhetoric, providing a vivid snapshot of today's political climate.
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CPAC Veteran
- Dave Weigel has attended 16 CPAC conferences, witnessing its evolution.
- He notes a shift from early support for George Bush to the current Trump-centric focus.
Trump's Dominance
- Trump's CPAC speech garnered enthusiastic support, particularly his promises and attacks.
- Other speakers like Nikki Haley and Mike Pompeo failed to generate similar excitement.
Trump's Focus
- Trump's focus at CPAC was a return to power, echoing attendees' belief in election denial.
- The conference, smaller than previous years, lacked the usual exploration of alternative candidates.