Trump Sparks a New Era of Conservative Media at CPAC 2025

As attendees gathered for CPAC 2025, Fox News Digital took the opportunity to engage with various participants prior to President Donald Trump’s keynote address. The discussions revolved around the significant influence of Republicans on contemporary media narratives, highlighting a transformative moment in the political landscape.

The Evolution of CPAC

The Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) has a rich history, dating back to 1974. This annual gathering provides a platform for conservative thought leaders to discuss policies and engage with supporters. In particular, Trump’s impactful speech in 2017 marked a turning point, bringing the conference into the modern political arena.

The Expanding Influence of Conservative Media

During this year’s event, the emergence of conservative media was evident. Attendees witnessed a dynamic environment at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. Media spaces boasted a diverse range of participants, including established mainstream entities alongside independent podcasters and content creators.

This evolution in media has been embraced by Trump’s administration. The introduction of a dedicated “new media seat” in the White House press briefing room symbolizes this shift. It offers opportunities for influencers, podcasters, independent journalists, and content creators to interact directly with government officials. The response was overwhelming, as the White House received thousands of media applications following a recent announcement by press secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Engaging Youth Through Modern Platforms

Kellie Lynch, a CPAC attendee, emphasized the importance of diverse media voices. She stated, “The variety within new media enriches the landscape. It’s inspiring to see conservative influencers leverage platforms like TikTok and Instagram to connect with the younger demographic. President Trump successfully tapped into this voter base during his election campaign.”

Trump’s Strategy with Podcasts

As part of his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump actively engaged with the podcast arena. Under the guidance of his Gen Z son, Barron Trump, he participated in popular shows such as Theo Von’s “This Past Weekend,” Joe Rogan’s “The Joe Rogan Experience,” and Logan Paul’s “IMPAULSIVE.” These appearances generated massive viewership, with Rogan’s episode alone attracting up to 26 million views.

John Taber, a young attendee, reflected, “Listening to Trump on Joe Rogan resonated with audiences who often feel neglected by politicians. Many found hope in his words during that conversation. This connection is why many conservatives increasingly support Trump.”

Harley Richards, a conservative TikToker, noted, “Trump’s transparent approach to expressing his views worked well for him. He ventured into the podcast realm without concerns about what questions might arise, demonstrating his readiness to engage directly with the public.”

The Shift in Social Media Engagement

Jacob Lee, another CPAC participant, commented on the dominance of podcasts among younger audiences. “Today’s youth is captivated by podcasts, particularly those hosted by personalities like Joe Rogan. Unlike some other political figures, Trump effectively engaged the younger male voter demographic by participating in these accessible forums. This strategy undoubtedly contributed to his appeal among that group.”

To enhance outreach, the White House established the @RapidResponse47 account, which quickly disseminates crucial information and highlights Trump’s notable statements. This initiative enables followers to engage in discussions, even with those beyond the conservative sphere. Taber acknowledged the account’s value, stating, “I find it useful as it invites conversation with those holding differing viewpoints.”

Connecting Through TikTok and Beyond

Tiffany Cianci, who creates content on TikTok under the handle TikTok Town Hall, explained how Trump utilized TikTok effectively to connect with his audience. She mentioned, “During the election cycle, individuals began to expect accountability and engagement from their politicians, which is something Trump capitalized on.”

Moreover, social media evolved significantly, particularly following Elon Musk’s acquisition of X (formerly Twitter). With 218.5 million followers, Musk directly communicates with the public, sharing real-time updates and fostering an environment where conservative voices can express themselves without apprehension.

Lynch mentioned the positive transformation, stating, “The replatforming of conservatives on X post-Musk’s purchase has amplified crucial voices that were silenced before. A renewed emphasis on free speech ensures that diverse viewpoints can be shared openly.”

Legacy Media Adjusts to a Changing Landscape

As shifts in political discourse occur, traditional media is making its own adjustments. Bill Abbott, president and CEO of Great American Media, shared his insights with Fox News Digital, particularly regarding the evolving landscape of family-friendly conservative content. Abbott’s company emerged three years ago to address a growing demand for conservative programming.

During CPAC, Abbott conveyed, “There’s been a noticeable change in how people engage with conservative media. It’s possible that, in the past, many felt hesitant to express their opinions due to potential backlash. However, with recent electoral wins and broader acceptance of conservative values, individuals now feel empowered to share their authentic perspectives.”

The Voice of the Silent Majority

Bode Brewer, a CPAC attendee from Pennsylvania, reinforced this sentiment by stating, “Conservatism has always had a presence, but it lacked the platform to showcase its strength. The conservative community is now activated and ready to be heard. This resurgence is reshaping the media landscape and influencing perceptions nationwide.”