Logistical and economic concerns were also part of the conversation among attendees. With rising gas prices and inflation being linked to the geopolitical instability in the Middle East, some participants expressed worry that these factors could hurt Republican chances in the November midterms. The cost of attending the conference itself was cited by some as a reason for lower-than-usual turnout from certain regions. This economic anxiety provided a stark contrast to the populist energy that usually fuels CPAC, as voters balanced their personal loyalty to the President with the everyday financial pressures they face.
