The Faith and Freedom Coalition held the second day of its annual Road to Majority Conference on June 27, bringing together conservative activists, elected officials, and grassroots leaders to discuss policy priorities, voter engagement, and campaign strategy ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Core Developments
- Evangelical leaders at the conference reaffirmed their unwavering support for Israel, despite growing divisions within the GOP over the issue.
- House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) quoted the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) platform on Gaza, drawing audible gasps from the crowd.
Deeper Context
Evangelical Support for Israel
Evangelical attendees at the conference expressed strong support for Israel, contrasting with some GOP figures who have criticized U.S. backing of the country. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) emphasized that antisemitism is a precursor to anti-Americanism, referencing her recent questioning of Ivy League presidents over pro-Palestinian protests on campuses.
GOP Divisions Over Israel
While evangelicals remain steadfast in their support, some prominent GOP figures, including former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, political commentator Candace Owens, and political strategist Steve Bannon, have emerged as vocal critics of Israel. The GOP’s stance on Israel has become increasingly fractured, with some members advocating for a more neutral or critical approach.
Democratic Socialists of America Platform
House Speaker Mike Johnson read parts of the DSA platform on Gaza, which calls for a free Palestine with Jerusalem as its capital, an end to all military and economic aid to Israel, and the prosecution of U.S. and Israeli leaders for alleged genocide in Gaza. The crowd reacted with audible gasps.
Trump-Netanyahu Relations
Former President Donald Trump’s relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly frayed over a memorandum of understanding with Iran, which stipulates that Israel will cease attacking Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Policy and Rhetoric
The conference highlighted the ongoing debate within the GOP over Israel, with evangelicals representing a key bloc of support. The event also underscored the broader political tensions surrounding U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.