Leading far-right figures gathered at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest 2024, celebrating President-elect Donald Trump’s influence, and for the most part, pointed out the splintering of the president-elect’s party.
Speakers like Steve Bannon criticised House Speaker Mike Johnson for working with Democrats, despite Johnson’s close association with Trump. “The political class is infected with a malignant cancer. The cancer is bipartisanship,” Bannon declared, calling for a more hardline approach and Johnson’s removal.
The convention showcased attendees’ varied priorities, from curbing transgender rights and focusing on domestic energy to revamping immigration policies and boosting patriotic values.
Jennifer Pacheco, a young supporter, praised Trump’s leadership, emphasising her desire for stronger cultural and economic foundations in the country.
Trump, appearing at the event’s finale, reiterated his promises of a “golden age” for the nation. He avoided addressing recent legislative defeats but emphasised his broader vision for change.
Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk lauded Trump as a transformative figure, declaring, “Thank you, God, for sending us Donald Trump”.
Bannon compared Trump’s recent election victory to historical political realignments, calling the gathered crowd “the vanguard of a revolutionary movement”. He and others, including commentator Ben Shapiro, defended Trump’s agenda, despite discrepancies on issues like tariffs and foreign aid.
Amid the diverse viewpoints, Kirk encouraged unity within Trump’s coalition. “Whatever focus group you have, as long as we agree on the big stuff, we need to combine forces,” he said.
(With inputs from AP)
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