As the current election season emerges, a sense of optimism pervades the U.S. conservative movement, regardless of the outcome. A significant generational shift is underway, distancing itself from the established beliefs of the older conservative elite, largely composed of baby boomers. This new wave of young conservatives is emphasizing the original tenets of conservatism—primarily, the mission to preserve what is commendable about America, which includes a critical examination of the nation’s foreign policy. The wisdom of early American leaders such as George Washington underscores the idea that America should refrain from forming strong alliances with foreign nations and instead focus on its own prosperity. History reminds us, as articulated by John Quincy Adams, that America should serve as a supporter of freedom and independence rather than a militaristic force seeking to impose change abroad.
The mainstream media, in conjunction with traditional neoconservative values, has portrayed opposition to U.S. support of Israel’s actions in Gaza as unpatriotic or misguided. However, this view overlooks the growing concerns among younger conservatives, especially in relation to the humanitarian toll of military engagements that disproportionately affect innocent civilians. In fact, a notable segment of the youth and conservative demographic is increasingly vocal about their discomfort with the Israel-Palestine situation and the implications of America’s unyielding support for Israeli policies. For example, recent polling shows overwhelming support among younger Republicans—specifically those aged 18-24—for an arms embargo on Israel during its military campaigns. This shift signals a significant departure from established conservative doctrine.
Historically, figures like Patrick Buchanan have vocalized sentiments deviating from the prevailing pro-Israel narrative within the Republican Party, suggesting that America’s foreign policy has become excessively intertwined with that of Israel. Buchanan’s 1990 assertion that “Capitol Hill is Israeli occupied territory” starkly challenged the prevailing pro-Israel discourse, illuminating the neoconservatives’ control over American foreign policy and broader conservative ideology. His dissent from neocon virtues was met with backlash, primarily from influential figures like William F. Buckley, Jr. who worked to maintain the dominance of neoconservative thought within the Republican establishment. This exclusion of differing perspectives ultimately paved the way for the tightly controlled narratives surrounding American foreign policy.
Despite these historical suppressions, a resurgence of traditional conservative thought appears to be surfacing through influential figures who challenge the status quo with well-structured arguments against neoconservatism. Bob Novak, a renowned journalist who initially aligned with the neoconservative movement, underwent a transformation that saw him more closely align with the fundamental tenets of conservatism, recognizing the need for a less interventionist foreign policy. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Novak’s spiritual journey led him to renounce the neoconservatives’ hawkish stance on foreign relations, particularly in relation to Israel—a trajectory that is increasingly relevant in today’s conservative dialogues.
In contemporary contexts, this shift is gaining traction among young conservative commentators across various mediums, from social media outlets like TikTok to positions in established journalism. Figures like Donald Trump, while not fully embracing this new wave of non-interventionist conservatism, are beginning to recognize and appeal to a base that desires a break from the aggressive foreign policies endorsed by previous Republican administrations. Trump’s recent remarks, which included acknowledgment of Buchanan’s influence, illustrate an awareness of this impending change within the party, suggesting a potential pivot towards a more isolationist stance among a younger demographic craving authenticity and adherence to core conservative ideals.
The tides of conservatism are undoubtedly shifting, revealing an awakening of sorts among younger generations. Reflections on the historical narratives of conservatism highlight an evolving discourse that aims to return to the roots of the philosophy, focusing on the exceptional qualities of America and advocating for a foreign policy that does not prioritize foreign engagements at the expense of American ideals or human lives abroad. This evolution could redefine the contours of conservative thought moving forward, infusing it with a renewed vigor and enhancing discussions about America’s role in the world. As this generational shift unfolds, there remains a feeling of anticipation surrounding what this new conservative landscape will ultimately manifest, reminiscent of Bob Dylan’s lyric: “something is happening and you don’t know what it is…” which aptly captures the essence of this pivotal moment in American conservatism.
