CPAC 2026 raises key questions about GOP unity, Iran war, and 2028 race

The Conservative Political Action Conference is back, but this year’s gathering is marked by uncertainty and big questions about the future of the Republican Party.

Held in Texas, Conservative Political Action Conference—better known as CPAC—comes at a time when shifting political dynamics and global tensions are testing party unity.

One of the biggest questions is the mood within the GOP. After a strong showing last year, recent polling challenges and policy debates are raising concerns about how unified the party remains heading into the 2026 midterms.

The war involving Iran is also creating divisions. While many Republicans support the conflict, polling suggests a notable portion of the party remains skeptical or only lukewarm, highlighting a potential rift within the base.

Looking ahead, attention is already turning to 2028. Vice President JD Vance has been viewed as a potential frontrunner, but Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s rising profile could signal a broader contest for the party’s future direction.

Closer to home, the Texas Senate race is expected to be a major focus. The battle between Senator John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton has divided Republicans, and CPAC could influence how the base rallies ahead of the runoff election.

Another lingering issue is the Epstein files, which continue to generate interest among some conservatives, even as other national concerns take center stage.

There are also questions about CPAC’s overall influence. Some major political figures are not scheduled to attend, raising the possibility that the conference may not carry the same weight it once did.

Still, CPAC remains a key barometer for conservative priorities—offering insight into where the party stands today and where it may be headed next.

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