The Shifting Sands of Conservatism: Decoding Eric Schmitt's NatCon Address

In an era of political flux, the National Conservatism conference stands as a crucible for new ideological currents, and Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt's address there offered a stark glimpse into a reshaping right. His speech, delivered amidst a backdrop of escalating culture wars, wasn't just a political statement; it was an echo of a movement increasingly defined by its fervent embrace of identity and its rejection of what it perceives as decadent modernism.

Schmitt, a prominent figure in Missouri politics, utilized his platform to articulate a vision of America that resonates deeply with the NatCon ethos.

This vision is characterized by a strong emphasis on national identity, traditional values, and a robust defense against perceived external and internal threats to that identity. The rhetoric employed often draws clear lines, distinguishing between 'our people' and 'others,' fostering a sense of urgent cultural preservation.

Observers of the National Conservative movement note its departure from certain tenets of traditional conservatism.

While historically focused on fiscal prudence, limited government, and individual liberty, the NatCon agenda prioritizes cultural cohesion, national sovereignty, and, at times, a more interventionist state to enforce cultural norms. Schmitt's speech exemplified this shift, dedicating significant airtime to issues like immigration, education, and what he termed the 'woke' agenda, positioning them as existential battles for the soul of the nation.

The implications of such a stance are profound.

By framing political discourse in terms of cultural survival, the movement often demonizes opposition and consolidates support around a shared sense of grievance and a desire for a return to a romanticized past. This approach risks alienating significant portions of the populace and further polarizing an already fractured political landscape.

Schmitt's embrace of this narrative is not isolated; it reflects a broader trend among certain Republican figures who see aligning with the National Conservative movement as a path to electoral success and ideological purity.

Ultimately, Eric Schmitt's NatCon speech was more than just a policy outline; it was a declaration of allegiance to a burgeoning ideological force.

It served as a potent reminder that the conservative movement is not monolithic, and its future direction is being vigorously debated and redefined on stages like the National Conservatism conference, with figures like Schmitt leading the charge towards a more nationalistic and culturally focused political identity.