The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) has long been a cornerstone for conservatives, gathering major political figures and activists annually since its inception. Historically, it has been known for its vibrant atmosphere and significant social events. However, the 2026 event, taking place in Grapevine, Texas, is witnessing a stark decline in attendance and a notable absence of major speakers.
This year marks a significant shift, as Donald Trump, a regular attendee for over a decade, is not present. Reports indicate that attendance numbers are lower than previous years, with some attendees expressing disappointment. The conference is reportedly struggling with competition from other conservative gatherings, particularly Turning Point USA, which recently attracted 30,000 attendees to its national convention.
Matt Schlapp, the CPAC chairman, has faced scrutiny, earning over $830,000 in the tax year 2023 while the conference struggles to maintain its relevance. Critics, including Erick Erickson, have voiced concerns, stating, “‘C’ in CPAC is now best represented by the world ‘clown’ than as any semblance of a conservative institution.” This sentiment reflects a growing disillusionment among conservatives regarding the direction of the conference.
Raheem Kassam, a prominent figure at the event, recounted chaotic scenes at past conferences, saying, “We did an open bar, and within two hours, there were people passed out in the toilets, glass smashed everywhere.” Such anecdotes highlight a shift in the conference’s atmosphere, which once thrived on political engagement.
Enrique Tarrio remarked, “It’s a midterm year,” suggesting that the timing of the conference may have contributed to its struggles. Despite the challenges, Schlapp maintains that CPAC remains the “center of political gravity,” though that assertion is increasingly questioned.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the reasons behind the low attendance and lack of major speakers at CPAC 2026. Observers are left to wonder about the future of CPAC as a significant conservative gathering, given recent trends and criticisms. The conference’s ability to adapt and regain its stature in the conservative movement remains uncertain.
