Turning Point USA Event Will Feature Vance and MAGA Figures
Turning Point USA’s AmeriFest is scheduled for December 17 to 20 in Phoenix, with Vice President JD Vance as the headline speaker. The lineup includes Karoline Leavitt, Steve Bannon, Tulsi Gabbard, Riley Gaines, Ben Carson, Matt Gaetz, Donald Trump Jr., and Erika Kirk. Tucker Carlson is absent after a 2025 clash with Ben Shapiro that highlighted divisions on the right at last year’s event.
AmeriFest is set for Phoenix from December 17 to 20. Vice President JD Vance will again lead the speaker list, joined by Karoline Leavitt, Steve Bannon, Tulsi Gabbard, Riley Gaines, Ben Carson, Matt Gaetz, Donald Trump Jr., Erika Kirk, Nick Shirley, and others. Tucker Carlson is not listed.
Last year’s gathering was the first after TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk was assassinated. It was described as largely unsuccessful and drew attention for a Carlson–Shapiro dispute over conspiracism and Israel, exposing conservative divisions. This year’s event follows a midterm cycle that could prove disappointing for Republicans.
The lineup could intensify attention on intra-conservative disagreements, shaping how Republican voters and activists discuss issues like Israel, conspiracy claims, and transgender policy. Carlson’s absence may signal which voices remain central before the next election cycle. For Phoenix-area businesses and residents, the event may bring crowds, security needs, and media scrutiny. National audiences could see the gathering as a barometer of MAGA coalition cohesion, though its direct policy effects may be limited.