American conservatism fractures as Shapiro and Vance clash at AmericaFest
The future of American conservatism took centre stage at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference in Phoenix. Years of debate over what defines the movement reached a boiling point as key figures clashed over ideology and leadership. Speakers like Ben Shapiro and JD Vance laid out starkly different visions for the right’s direction.
The discussions went beyond policy disagreements. Instead, they focused on who belongs in the movement—and who should be pushed out.
The conference exposed deep divisions among high-profile right-wing figures. Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson accused Ben Shapiro of prioritising Israel over American interests, labelling his circle the 'Israel First Clique.' Shapiro fired back, criticising both for associating with conspiracy theorists, extremists, and antisemites at Turning Point events.
Shapiro used his Heritage Foundation speech to call for 'ideological border control.' He argued that leaders must judge which ideas and individuals align with conservatism’s core mission. Without this discernment, he warned, the movement risks losing its identity entirely. His sharp words targeted 'frauds,' 'grifters,' and 'cowards' he believes are undermining the right. Meanwhile, JD Vance took a different stance in his closing keynote. He rejected calls to 'cancel' figures within the movement, framing internal purges as self-defeating. His remarks came amid growing criticism of Donald Trump’s legacy, including his withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, pardons for Capitol rioters, and sweeping tariffs on 70 countries. Trump’s policies—along with his authoritarian tendencies—have drawn accusations of weakening democracy, press freedom, and judicial independence. Vance, seen as Trump’s potential successor, also faced scrutiny for his own rhetoric, including anti-Christian war messaging. The conference made clear that the right’s internal struggles are no longer about policy alone. Instead, they revolve around a fundamental question: who gets to define conservatism’s future?
The AmericaFest debates left little room for compromise. Shapiro’s call for ideological discipline contrasts sharply with Vance’s warning against internal purges. Both positions reflect a movement at a crossroads, grappling with its identity and purpose.
The outcome will determine not just who leads the right, but what principles it stands for—and what it discards.
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