A think tank called American Compass is stirring up discussions on the right, particularly around economic populism that extends well beyond what former President Trump popularized. The founder, Oren Cass, has been vocal about opposing what he describes as “market fundamentalism,” advocating instead for protectionist tariffs, higher taxes on the wealthy, and a new labor movement that aligns with conservative values.
This shift has not sat well with traditional conservative free-market advocates. For instance, during an event on Capitol Hill last summer, an intern from Americans for Tax Reform was seen distributing leaflets critical of Cass. In fact, David McIntosh, the president of the Club for Growth, publicly dismissed Cass and his organization as unauthentic representatives within the Republican policy landscape.
Yet, American Compass appears to resonate with some of Trump’s policies, gaining traction among significant figures, including Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who are scheduled to speak at a gala celebrating the group’s fifth anniversary. Cass himself noted that Trump has essentially cleared a path for alternative conservative strategies, indicating that the traditional Reagan-style consensus might be outdated.
Cass categorizes his critics into two groups: those who are academic but disagree fundamentally, like libertarians from the Cato Institute and the American Enterprise Institute, and others who, in his words, “aren’t really idea-oriented” but act more like activist groups. He added that while he welcomes criticism, attacks devoid of evidence do not hold weight.
The dynamic surrounding tax cuts is illustrative of this tension. Although Trump and some Republicans have strived for substantial tax cuts, Cass has highlighted resistance within the party, recalling how candidates in a 2011 debate shied away from linking tax raises with spending cuts.
McIntosh of Club for Growth rejected American Compass’s tax proposals, stating that despite Cass’s efforts, he failed to realize significant tax rate increases. Now with a staff of around ten, American Compass has moved from a yoga studio to a more formal office space, revealing a new publication called “The New Conservative,” which outlines its positions more formally.
Attempts to attract more influence have seen Cass focus on building a membership base that includes policy experts from various sectors, arguing that while party leadership may shift, a new generation is emerging in the conservative movement.
Inside conservative circles, opinions about American Compass vary considerably, though it seems that influential figures are beginning to pay attention, even if they don’t fully agree with the populist approach. For example, Chip Roy, a Republican representative, has recognized their efforts to distinguish between genuine free enterprise and corporate cronyism.
Freedom Caucus Nonprofits Start Campaigns
The House Freedom Caucus, initially low-profile, has ramped up its presence as it champions Trump’s tax initiatives. Their affiliated nonprofit launched a major advertisement praising their role in steering conservative legislation.
This ad highlighted the group’s negotiations and efforts to push for significant cuts in spending and stricter work requirements for Medicaid. Trump has publicly praised the Caucus for their hard work and has noted the widespread reach of the ad campaign. The Freedom Caucus has already established connections with other conservative organizations, including the House Freedom Fund and the State Freedom Caucus Network, to bolster their influence further.
Trump and the Federalist Society Clash
President Trump’s relationship with the Federalist Society has soured, culminating in the dismissal of Leonard Leo, a key figure in Trump’s judicial selection process. Trump expressed his discontent on social media, criticizing Leo for having too much influence over the organization. Leo countered by acknowledging Trump’s role in transforming federal courts and emphasized that his contributions would be a significant part of Trump’s legacy.
Upcoming Events
- Tuesday, June 3rd: American Compass will hold “The New World Gala” featuring Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
- Thursday, June 5th: The American Enterprise Institute will host a discussion with Senator Todd Young on emerging technologies.
- Tuesday, June 17th: The Federalist Society’s Attorney’s Chapter will host an event featuring Senator Ted Cruz.
Recent Highlights
- Americans for Prosperity is launching a significant ad campaign in June to support Trump’s tax cuts, which has garnered fast attention from various sectors.
- A memorial was held for Bernard Kerik, the former New York City Police Commissioner, who passed away recently. Trump had previously pardoned him.
- Students for Life Action are focusing on 12 Republican Senators in their efforts to maintain regulations that defund Planned Parenthood, rating them based on their pro-life stances.
What I’m Reading
- Wired’s Jake Lahut: Trump World is tired of Laura Loomer. They hope that the president is too.
- New York Times’ Robert Draper: How Butterworth has become a new scene in Trump’s Washington.
- Washington Post’s Paul Kane: These Kentucky Republicans are trying to make an unlikely breakwater in Trump.
- RealClearPolitics’ Susan Crab Tree: CA High School can test Trump’s “Indian Cantration Order.”
