Trump Addresses Faith and Freedom Coalition’s 2024 Road to Majority Conference

Former President Donald Trump is set to deliver the keynote address at a significant Christian conference this Saturday, strategically engaging with social conservatives ahead of his anticipated formal acceptance of the Republican presidential nomination in July.

Trump’s announcement came via a video released from his private plane, “Trump Force One,” as he made his way to the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., where the Faith and Freedom Coalition (F&F) is hosting its annual Road to Majority Conference.

Emphasizing the event’s importance, Trump expressed anticipation for addressing a large audience and underscored the significance of the gathering.

Pro-Trump souvenir glasses are for sale at the Faith & Freedom Coalition’s Road to Majority Policy Conference at the Washington Hilton on June 21, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Samuel Corum/Getty Images)

The Road to Majority Conference, organized annually by the F&F, boasts a membership exceeding 3 million across the United States, making it a pivotal platform for conservative Christian activists.

It is the largest public policy gathering, focusing on key policy issues resonating with voters of faith as the 2024 election cycle approaches.

Ralph Reed, founder and chairman of the Faith & Freedom Coalition, outlined the conference’s priorities, highlighting an intense desire among social conservatives for a federal abortion ban. Reed stressed the importance of Republican elected officials aligning with pro-life values, noting the expectation for them to advocate for these beliefs courageously.

Former President Donald Trump enters at a campaign event on June 18, 2024, in Racine, Wisconsin. Jeffrey Phelps/AP

Despite Trump’s stance that abortion regulations should be left to individual states rather than mandated federally—a position that differs from many evangelical voters within the pro-life movement—, he remains popular among conservatives for his role in appointing three Supreme Court justices pivotal in overturning Roe v. Wade.

In defence of Trump’s position, Reed expressed confidence that his accomplishments in advancing pro-life and pro-family causes during his presidency have solidified his standing with evangelical voters, who are willing to grant him leeway on this issue.

“Make America Great Again” hats and other pro-Trump merchandise are for sale at the Faith & Freedom Coalition’s Road to Majority Policy Conference at the Washington Hilton on June 21, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Samuel Corum/Getty Images)

Among the distinguished speakers joining Trump at the conference are Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Dr. Ben Carson, and former Hawaii Representative Tulsi Gabbard. Gabbard, who switched from the Democratic to the Republican Party in 2022, adds a unique perspective to the lineup.

The presence of potential running mates such as Youngkin, Noem, Carson, and Gabbard underscores the event’s significance as a platform where contenders for the vice presidential slot could potentially vie for Trump’s favour ahead of the Republican National Convention later this summer.

Ralph Reed, chairman of the Faith and Freedom Coalition, addresses the 2024 Road to Majority Conference in Washington, DC, on June 22, 2024. (Chris KLEPONIS/AFP)

The conference marks a strategic moment in Trump’s reemergence onto the political stage, showcasing his ongoing influence within the Republican Party and his concerted efforts to consolidate support among critical constituencies crucial for the upcoming election cycle.

Following his address at the Road to Majority Conference, Trump will continue his engagement by heading to Philadelphia for a campaign rally later in the evening, maintaining momentum and visibility as he navigates the path towards the Republican National Convention and the 2024 presidential campaign.