Key Takeaways

• Steve Bannon faced a very small audience at a major conference.
• He attacked New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani as a Marxist and jihadist.
• He warned of civil war in England and dangers in Muslim immigration.
• He criticized the Trump administration’s removal of CDC experts.

This year’s National Conservatism Conference in Washington, D.C., featured a fiery speech by Steve Bannon. However, most of the seats in the auditorium sat empty. As a result, his fiery warnings echoed to a sparse crowd. Despite his fierce language, turnout remained low. So why did this happen, and what did he say?

Sparse Attendance for Steve Bannon at National Conservatism Conference

Steve Bannon took the stage with high expectations. Yet, he faced dozens of empty rows. Conservative correspondent Byron York even snapped a photo of the meager crowd. In fact, very few people showed up to hear his message. Many blamed the tense political climate. Others pointed to Bannon’s reputation. Consequently, his influence may have waned since his White House days.

Moreover, the conference clashed with other events. Some attendees chose different panels. Others stayed away because of travel costs. In addition, security concerns at Washington gatherings may have scared off some guests. Therefore, the room looked half full at best. Despite the empty seats, Bannon spoke without pause.

Steve Bannon’s Warnings on Mamdani and Europe

During his speech, Steve Bannon focused on Zohran Mamdani. Mamdani is a recently nominated left-wing candidate for New York City mayor. Bannon called him a “Marxist and Jihadist.” He claimed that any threat to Israel and Jewish people would come from New York City, not Tehran. For example, he said, “The threat is right in New York City … [Mamdani] is going to win running away.”

In addition, Bannon used the event to attack Muslim immigration in Europe. He warned that unchecked migration would lead to social collapse. He argued that European cities were losing their identity. As a result, he said people must push back hard. However, his harsh words drew criticism from many who saw them as hateful.

Furthermore, Bannon looked at England and predicted a civil war. He said, “England is heading to a civil war as we speak.” Such a claim alarms listeners. Yet, he based it on rising political divides over immigration and sovereignty. He argued that without strong leadership, nations will fracture from within.

Inside Steve Bannon’s Take on Trump’s CDC Purge

Steve Bannon has also criticized his own team. Recently, he blasted the Trump administration’s plan to remove public health experts from the CDC. He warned that removing experts like Director Susan Monarez could backfire. In fact, senators who pushed for Monarez’s removal might block the next nominee. For example, Senator Bill Cassidy supported Monarez’s appointment. Now, he could oppose a replacement.

Therefore, Bannon fears the administration will box itself in. He argues that political fights over CDC posts could stall all public health decisions. Moreover, he sees this as part of his long-held view that the “administrative state” should be dismantled. Yet, he worries that chaos in public health will hurt conservative goals.

Next Steps for Bannon and His Allies

Despite the low turnout, Steve Bannon vowed to keep fighting. He plans more speeches at local rallies. However, he faces a challenge: rebuilding trust with a base that has grown wary. In the past, his strategies drove headlines. Now, he must show results. So far, empty seats at a major conference send a warning sign.

In addition, Bannon’s focus on international threats may feel distant to some Americans. Voters may care more about jobs, schools, and healthcare. Therefore, he might shift his message. He could emphasize local issues and personal stories. That approach might fill more seats next time.

Meanwhile, Bannon’s critique of the CDC could gain traction if another health crisis emerges. People may see his warnings as timely. If so, his influence could grow again. However, he needs a platform with a real audience.

Conclusion

Steve Bannon’s recent speech at the National Conservatism Conference drew few listeners. Nevertheless, he delivered strong warnings about political and social threats. He attacked Zohran Mamdani, feared a civil war in England, and blasted the CDC shake-up. Yet, the near-empty auditorium signals challenges ahead. If Bannon hopes to shape conservative policy, he must first fill the seats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was turnout so low for Steve Bannon?

Turnout remained low due to event clashes, travel concerns, and security issues. In addition, some critics avoid his divisive style.

What did Steve Bannon say about Zohran Mamdani?

He called Mamdani a “Marxist and Jihadist” and said the real threat to Jewish people comes from New York City.

Why did Steve Bannon warn of a civil war in England?

He pointed to rising political divides over immigration and national identity. He argued these tensions could lead to major unrest.

How could the CDC shake-up affect Trump’s plans?

Removing public health experts may prompt senators to block future nominees. Such fights could stall public health policies and hurt conservative goals.