Shifting Focus to Bold Actions Post-2024 Republican Wins
The 2025 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC 2025) revealed a marked change in how social conservatives aim to engage in cultural and policy discussions. Having gained momentum from Republican triumphs in the 2024 elections, the focus has shifted from a defensive stance to a full-fledged offensive strategy. At the heart of these actions is a growing confidence that stems in large part from the prominence given to issues like gender ideology under the Trump administration.
Mercedes Schlapp, a senior fellow at the American Conservative Union (ACU) Foundation, detailed how President Trump’s emphasis on gender ideology has notably energized Catholic and Christian parents. This mobilization is seen as vital in swaying Catholic voting patterns towards more conservative candidates, underscoring the influence of strongly held cultural beliefs in shaping political landscapes.
Concerns over Cultural Shifts and Call to Action
The sentiment was further echoed by Michael Knowles, a Catholic political commentator, who took a stern stance against federal recognition of same-sex marriage. For Knowles, marriage remains a natural institution, fundamentally between a man and a woman, suggesting that policies should reflect these enduring beliefs.
One panel discussion, titled “Culture Warriors: Take Your Truce and Shove It,” showcased voices like Terry Schilling of the American Principles Project. Schilling applauded Trump, describing him as the “most pro-family president,” for his executive decisions aimed at protecting children from emerging gender ideologies. Meanwhile, Penny Nance from Concerned Women for America stressed the necessity for Congress to embed these ideas in legislation to prevent potential policy shifts in future administrations.
Beyond political strategies, concerns were raised about societal trends that are perceived as threatening family stability. Schilling and Nance addressed alarming issues such as declining marriage rates, widespread pornography, and increasing marijuana use. For Schilling, who raises seven children, the need to refocus on family and marriage is paramount, suggesting these are foundational to societal harmony. Nance also highlighted the challenges of low fertility rates, urging action to tackle the root causes of what they describe as a systemic decline in family structures.
Mercedes Schlapp framed the broader cultural movement as a form of spiritual warfare, emphasizing the perceived ‘diabolical influences’ targeting Christian values. Within this narrative, strong, religious families are viewed as pillars for constructing stable communities.
This year’s CPAC signaled a robust determination among conservatives to advance their agenda on gender ideology, family values, and broader cultural issues. They aim to use the current political success and institutional support from the Trump era as tools to embed their vision into the fabric of national policy and culture.