The Principles First summit, a center-right alternative to the Conservative Political Action Conference, convened on Saturday with a focused agenda: denouncing former President Donald Trump's autocratic tendencies. This gathering saw an array of speakers, including former police officer Michael Fanone and political figures like Asa Hutchinson and Chris Christie, who collectively voiced concerns over Trump's actions and their implications for American democracy.
Fanone, who valiantly defended the US Capitol during the infamous January 6 insurrection, criticized Trump for pardoning approximately 1,500 individuals involved in the chaos. He remarked on the gravity of these actions by stating that they represented "a diminishment of the rule of law in America." Such pardons, according to Fanone, undermine the foundational principles of justice that the nation stands upon.
Former Republican presidential candidate Asa Hutchinson echoed these sentiments. He asserted that Trump perceives the Department of Justice as a tool to execute his personal directives. Hutchinson emphasized this point by stating, "President Trump has diminished the rule of law in America," and further commented, "President Trump, because the supreme court gave him immunity, believes he is the law."
Chris Christie, the former governor of New Jersey, added to the criticism by describing Trump’s attitude as one where "he believes that the attorney general of the United States is his personal lawyer." This perception of unchecked power alarms many within the conservative ranks who value constitutional integrity.
Adding to the list of concerns at the summit was a bomb threat from Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the far-right Proud Boys group. Although later revealed as a false alarm, it forced attendees to evacuate for about two hours as police conducted a thorough security sweep. Tarrio denied involvement; however, his past actions and recent pardon by Trump for his role in the insurrection remained central to discussions at the event.
During one of the viral exchanges that caught national attention, Trump questioned Maine Governor Janet Mills about her compliance with his executive order on transgender athletes. Mills stood firm, responding that she adhered to state and federal laws—a stance that resonated with many who advocate for state autonomy against federal overreach.
Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban provided a broader perspective on Trump's influence. He suggested that the initial "chaos" resulting from Trump's administration offers an opportunity for critics to propose a more stable vision for America's future. Cuban's remarks encouraged those at the summit to leverage this moment for meaningful change.
Amidst these discussions, Tim Miller urged attendees to stand firm against intimidation and uphold their principles. He boldly stated, "I know these people. They are cowards," and further encouraged activism by saying, "Our job is to say no to this, to stand up to them and to not be afraid because they want you to be afraid, and you have no reason to be fearful of these little men."
Gregg Nunziata also emphasized the need for action, urging citizens to react strongly against any unconstitutional acts by Trump or his supporters. "People need to be in the streets. People need to be strongly reacting against it," he stated, advocating for a grassroots movement to safeguard democratic values.
The summit concluded with a call to action for all attendees. Speakers implored participants to actively oppose any measures that threaten constitutional tenets and to hold leaders accountable for their actions. The event underscored a critical moment in American politics where traditional conservatives are compelled to redefine their values in contrast to Trump's legacy.