Vice President Vance Addresses AmericaFest, Declines Specific Condemnation of Antisemitism

Vance Outlines Vision for Conservative Movement at AmericaFest

Vice President JD Vance addressed attendees at Turning Point USA's AmericaFest 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona, on Sunday, December 21, 2025. During his speech, Vance emphasized that the conservative movement should be inclusive of all individuals who 'love America', while notably declining to issue specific condemnations of antisemitism.

The event, which ran from December 19-21, 2025, served as a significant platform for discussions on the future direction of the Republican Party and the 'Make America Great Again' (MAGA) movement.

Remarks on Inclusivity and 'Purity Tests'

In his address, Vice President Vance firmly stated his opposition to 'purity tests' within the conservative ranks. He asserted, 'I didn't bring a list of conservatives to denounce or to de-platform,' indicating a broad approach to movement membership. Vance articulated that the movement welcomes individuals regardless of their background, stating, 'We don't care if you're white or black, rich or poor, young or old, rural or urban, controversial or a little bit boring, or somewhere in between.'

These comments were made in the context of ongoing debates within the Republican Party regarding the inclusion of controversial figures, such as podcaster Nick Fuentes, who has been associated with white supremacist views and antisemitic tropes.

Context of Antisemitism Debate and Reactions

Vance's decision not to specifically condemn antisemitism at the event drew criticism from some Jewish conservatives and other observers. Critics argued that the Vice President missed an opportunity to unequivocally denounce antisemitic rhetoric that has been a point of contention within conservative youth circles. One conservative activist noted that Vance had an opportunity to 'denounce antisemitism amid its historic surge' but did not.

The AmericaFest conference itself featured arguments about antisemitism and Israel, reflecting divisions within the conservative base, particularly concerning the extent of U.S. support for Israel. Some attendees questioned America's obligations to Israel, echoing what some have identified as antisemitic tropes. While Vance did not issue specific condemnations at AmericaFest, he had previously stated in an interview that 'antisemitism, and all forms of ethnic hatred, have no place in the conservative movement.'

Future of the Conservative Movement

The event highlighted the evolving landscape of the Republican Party as it considers a future beyond President Donald Trump's constitutional ineligibility for re-election. Erika Kirk, leader of Turning Point USA, publicly endorsed Vice President Vance as a potential successor to President Trump, signaling significant support from the influential youth organization. The discussions and differing viewpoints at AmericaFest underscore the complex challenges and internal struggles that figures like Vance will need to navigate in shaping the post-Trump conservative agenda.