Conservative Leaders Discuss Future Directions for MAGA Movement

At the National Conservatism Conference on September 2, 2025, conservative leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining the momentum of the MAGA movement, which they argue has seen significant success under President Donald Trump. The conference highlighted recent policy changes and the need for a continued commitment to conservative principles.

In the past seven months, the Trump administration has implemented a series of controversial policies, including significant changes to immigration enforcement and the dismantling of various federal agencies. ICE Director Tom Homan reported that the administration's enforcement strategy has led to 2.6 million new jobs for native-born Americans, while foreign-born workers have lost 1.6 million jobs.

Rachel Bovard, vice president of programs at the Conservative Partnership Institute, stated, "Donald Trump is the first Republican ever to seriously try to dismantle the federal government as a left-wing power base." (U.S. Congress) She argued that this approach is necessary to counteract decades of perceived failures by previous Republican leaders.

The conference also addressed the challenges ahead for the conservative movement. Bovard warned that complacency could lead to a resurgence of the Republican Establishment, which she claims still holds significant power in Congress. She pointed out that figures like Susan Collins and Mitch McConnell remain influential, and there are discussions among congressional Republicans about reinstating earmarks and amnesty for illegal immigrants.

Bovard urged attendees to reject the notion of returning to a more traditional Republican approach, stating, "No more 'polite' Republicans who crave social acceptance in the editorial pages of the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal." (U.S. Congress) She emphasized the need for a unified front to ensure that the gains made in 2025 are not lost.

The conference also touched on the role of technology and artificial intelligence in shaping future policies. Bovard expressed concern over the potential dangers of transhumanism, which she described as an existential threat to human dignity. She stated, "Trans-humanism is not cool. It is not interesting. It is an existential threat to human dignity straight from the mephitic boardrooms of hell." (U.S. Congress)

Despite these concerns, Bovard acknowledged the importance of engaging with technological advancements. She called for a balanced approach, advocating for the development of AI while ensuring that civil liberties are protected. "AI is going to be the defining problem-solving technology of the 21st century," (U.S. Congress) she said, emphasizing the need for conservatives to lead in this area.

The conference concluded with a call to action for conservatives to remain vigilant and proactive in their political efforts. Bovard reminded attendees that the success of the conservative coalition is contingent upon their commitment to core values and principles. "The Right is growing. The Left is cracking up. The country and our culture are healing," (U.S. Congress) she stated, urging attendees to take an active role in shaping the future of the movement.