The Focus Group Podcast S6 Ep21: The Heebie Jeebie GOP (with Will Sommer)
11 snips
Jan 24, 2026 
Will Sommer, right-wing media reporter and author of the False Flag newsletter, sheds light on a fracturing conservative movement. He discusses the MAGA establishment vs America First split. He explores influencer power after Charlie Kirk, Rubio’s surprising rehabilitation, Vance’s appeal problems, Gen Z shifts on Israel, and the rise of gryper-style provocateurs.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Right-Wing Schism Is Real And Growing
- The right is fracturing between a MAGA establishment and an America First/influencer wing driven by culture-war theatrics.
- Will Sommer says foreign policy, Epstein files, and influencer power created new pivot points reshaping the party.
Vance Gives Voters 'Heebie-Jeebies'
- In focus groups swing voters described JD Vance as "weird" or giving them "heebie-jeebies."
- Some women cited his comments on IVF and childlessness as real turnoffs.
Rubio Gains While Vance Creeps Out Swingers
- Swing voters react differently to JD Vance and Marco Rubio despite both being Trump-aligned figures.
- Rubio's secretary-of-state role gives him gravitas among swing voters while Vance unsettles women and centrists.
