For the first time in a decade, Donald Trump did not attend the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), leaving his supporters to grapple with the prospect of a ground war in Iran—a conflict that contradicts his anti-war campaign promises. The event, held near Dallas, saw attendees expressing both support and deep unease over the president's actions.
Erik Prince, former CEO of Blackwater, warned of dire consequences, predicting 'imagery of burning American warships' if an incursion proceeds. Former Navy Seal Jason Redman argued the US cannot stop now, while Ric Grenell, a former Trump diplomat, praised the president's wisdom in entering the war, claiming the Iranian regime will soon no longer be a threat.
Former congressman Matt Gaetz voiced opposition, stating a ground invasion would make the country 'poorer and less safe'. Steve Bannon urged unity, telling the crowd to back the Maga project regardless of internal divisions. Outside the venue, supporters of Iran's former crown prince Reza Pahlavi waved flags and cheered his address.
With Trump absent, the conference highlighted a movement at a crossroads, facing low approval ratings, rising petrol prices, and a challenging midterm election landscape. The war in Iran remains a central and divisive issue among the faithful.
