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Grapevine Today
By the People, for the People
Top Republicans Skip CPAC as Ted Cruz Rallies Conservatives
The annual conservative conference sees a smaller GOP field as Cruz takes the spotlight.
Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:05pm
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The biggest names in Republican presidential politics are skipping this year's Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), an event that usually serves as an early proving ground for candidates trying to fire up the party's activist base. However, one longtime Republican with eyes on the White House - Sen. Ted Cruz - is making the most of the available limelight, securing a prime Saturday speaking slot at the conference in Grapevine, Texas.
Why it matters
CPAC is a crucial event for Republican presidential hopefuls to connect with the party's most engaged and ideologically-driven voters. The absence of top-tier candidates like Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggests a shifting landscape in the GOP, as the party grapples with the legacy of the Trump presidency and charts a path forward. Cruz's prominent role highlights his continued influence among grassroots conservatives.
The details
While President Trump, the Trump family, and other high-profile Republicans are skipping this year's CPAC, Sen. Ted Cruz is seizing the opportunity. Cruz, who finished first in the 2016 Republican Iowa Caucuses, has been a favorite among CPAC attendees in the past and is adept at cultivating activist enthusiasm. Other speakers include Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott. The conference's annual 'straw poll' will provide an indication of which candidate is exciting the conservative base.
- CPAC is taking place this weekend (March 28-30, 2026) in Grapevine, Texas.
- Sen. Ted Cruz is scheduled to deliver a prime speaking slot on Saturday at the conference.
The players
Sen. Ted Cruz
A Republican senator from Texas who finished first in the 2016 Republican Iowa Caucuses and is a longtime favorite among CPAC attendees.
Greg Abbott
The Republican governor of Texas, who is also speaking at CPAC this year.
Vice President JD Vance
A leading contender to succeed former President Trump, who is currently focused on the war in Iran.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Another leading Republican presidential contender, who is also occupied with the war in Iran.
Former President Donald Trump
The former president, who has been a star of CPAC in the past, is not expected to attend this year's conference, with plans to be at Mar-a-Lago for the weekend.
What they’re saying
“I have a day job here in the Senate.”
— Sen. John Cornyn, U.S. Senator from Texas
What’s next
The results of CPAC's annual 'straw poll' will be announced on Saturday, providing an indication of which Republican candidate is exciting the party's conservative base.
The takeaway
The absence of top-tier Republican presidential candidates at CPAC this year suggests a shifting landscape in the GOP, as the party grapples with the legacy of the Trump presidency and seeks to chart a path forward. However, Sen. Ted Cruz's prominent role at the conference highlights his continued influence among grassroots conservatives, underscoring the ongoing battle for the soul of the Republican Party.
