Pence Launches $20 Million Anti-Populism Neoconservative Campaign

In an announcement on Wednesday, former Vice President Mike Pence drew new battle lines within the conservative movement through his political advocacy group, Advancing American Freedom. Launching what’s dubbed the “American Solutions Project,” Pence aims to pour $20 million into fighting what he calls “unprincipled populism” among the right. The project is an unmistakable assault on the America First populist wave led by President Donald Trump.

Pence stated, “Our nation was founded on conservative principles that have stood the test of time.” He argues that the country’s foundational values should not falter under the weight of what he describes as “transient movements” or charismatic leaders. His effort to return to what he sees as true conservative principles includes a significant financial commitment to expanding staff, bolstering infrastructure, and promoting neoconservative values.

Pence’s efforts are out of step with the current conservative movement, which has increasingly embraced Trump’s populist approach. Trump’s presidency, marked by strong immigration policies, America-first trade deals, and a no-nonsense foreign policy, has reshaped the Republican Party’s identity, resonating deeply with its base.

Pence’s campaign against populism has placed him at odds with the base that once supported him. While Pence advocates for continuing unaccountable taxpayer support for Ukraine, his position has seen declining favor among conservatives who prioritize domestic issues.

The timing of Pence’s initiative is also telling. Coinciding with the Conservative Political Action Conference and the South Carolina primary, it seems intended to sway the conservative dialogue away from Trump’s influence. However, this move could be seen as a disconnect from the grassroots momentum building around populist ideas.

Pence’s strategy, while claiming to be rooted in a desire to uphold conservative orthodoxy, will not resonate with a base that has grown accustomed to the outsider, business-minded approach of President Trump.

Despite facing an uphill battle, Pence remains committed to his cause, bringing on board figures like Ed Feulner, Victor Smith, and Art Pope to bolster his organization. However, whether this $20 million endeavor will change hearts and minds remains uncertain. The conservative movement, now steeped in protecting American interests above globalist adventurism, is likely to see Pence’s initiative as a misaligned attempt to revive a bygone era.