American Conservative Union

American Conservative Union. Founded in 1964, it is one of the oldest and most influential conservative advocacy organizations in the United States. The group is best known for hosting the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) and for its congressional ratings system, which scores lawmakers on their adherence to conservative principles. Its mission centers on promoting the ideals of limited government, individual liberty, free enterprise, a strong national defense, and traditional values within the Republican Party and the broader political landscape.

History

The organization was established on December 18, 1964, in the wake of Barry Goldwater's defeat in the 1964 United States presidential election, with founding figures including William F. Buckley Jr. and Ronald Reagan. Its creation aimed to unify the disparate factions of the conservative movement, such as libertarians, traditionalists, and anti-communists, into a coherent political force. A seminal moment in its early history was the first Conservative Political Action Conference in 1974, which quickly became a premier gathering for conservative activists, intellectuals, and politicians. Throughout the late 20th century, it played a significant role in shaping the platform of the Republican Party, notably during the presidency of Ronald Reagan, and later in supporting the Contract with America during the 1994 United States House of Representatives elections.

Political activities and influence

Its primary political activities revolve around the influential Conservative Political Action Conference, which attracts major figures like Donald Trump, Mitch McConnell, and Marjorie Taylor Greene. The organization exerts considerable influence through its annual congressional ratings, which grade members of the United States Congress on key votes and are widely cited by media outlets such as Fox News and The Washington Times. It actively engages in lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill, endorses political candidates, and runs issue advocacy campaigns, often aligning with allied groups like the Heritage Foundation and Turning Point USA. These efforts are designed to pressure legislators, shape the party's agenda, and mobilize conservative voters during elections like the 2016 United States presidential election.

Leadership and organization

The organization has been chaired by several prominent conservatives throughout its history, including longtime chairman David A. Keene and, since 2014, Matt Schlapp. Its board of directors has included notable figures such as former Energy Secretary Rick Perry and activist Charlie Kirk. Operationally, it is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, and its structure includes a foundation arm that focuses on policy research and educational initiatives. Key staff and affiliated political action committees work to coordinate its advocacy, fundraising, and event planning, particularly for the massive Conservative Political Action Conference held in locations like National Harbor and Orlando.

Policy positions

Its policy framework is built upon a staunch commitment to fiscal conservatism, advocating for lower taxes, reduced federal spending, and a balanced budget amendment to the United States Constitution. On social issues, it supports policies aligned with the religious right, including opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage, often working with groups like the Family Research Council. In foreign policy, it emphasizes a robust national defense, strong support for the State of Israel, and a hawkish stance against adversaries like China and Iran. The organization consistently promotes Second Amendment rights, school choice initiatives, and deregulation, frequently clashing with the Democratic Party and more moderate Republicans.

Controversies and criticism

The organization has faced significant controversy, particularly regarding the conduct of its chairman, Matt Schlapp, who has been accused of sexual assault in a lawsuit, allegations he denies. Its flagship event, the Conservative Political Action Conference, has drawn criticism for providing a platform to far-right figures and groups, including some with ties to white nationalism, such as when Nick Fuentes attended the 2022 gathering. Critics from both the left, including media like MSNBC, and from within the conservative movement, such as the Lincoln Project, have accused it of abandoning principled conservatism in favor of loyalty to Donald Trump. Additional scrutiny has focused on its financial management and the close business ties between its leadership and the event management company for CPAC.