New claims of sexual misconduct against CPAC Chairman Matt Schlapp surfaced in February 2025. Allegedly adding to prior claims, he touched a man at a Virginian pub. This tracks a Republican strategist’s 2022 allegation as well as a 2023 lawsuit against CPAC. Many people wonder now about the reaction of the conservative movement.
Matt Schlapp’s History with Sexual Misconduct Claims
Republican strategist Carlton Huffman said in October 2022 that Matt Schlapp, head of the Conservative Campaign Action Conference, had groped him on a campaign trip to Georgia. Seeking $9.4 million in damages for claimed sexual violence and slander, Huffman sued. According to Huffman’s revised complaint filed in December 2023, the American Conservative Union, the parent organization of CPAC, knew of at least two past sexual misbehavior claims against Schlapp but did nothing.
One incident reportedly happened in 2017 when Schlapp allegedly tried to kiss a male employee without consent at a CPAC after-party; another happened early 2022 on a fundraising trip in South Florida, where Schlapp was accused of stripping his pants and rubbing against another person. Huffman abandoned the case in March 2024 saying his accusations were “the result of a complete misunderstanding,” and no financial compensation was involved.
What Allegedly Happened at the Virginia Bar?
Matt Schlapp was charged in February 2025 with sexually abusing a man at The Black Twig pub in Sperryville, Virginia. Witnesses claimed Schlapp reportedly brushed toward groups of guys, often standing uneasily close to them. When questioned, he allegedly touched one man’s genitalia while still looking directly at them. Schlapp was escorted out following the incident by management, but he subsequently returned and set off further clashes. Matt Schlapp left the scene in a silver BMW, according to the Rappahannock County Sheriff’s Office, who verified a report about the attack.
How Did the Public and Media React to the New Allegations?
The main news sources gave great coverage of the claims of sexual misbehavior directed against CPAC Chairman Matt Schlapp. The issue predates events involving CPAC’s organizer, hence the Guardian underlined the possible influence on the institution’s reputation. Public reaction on social media was split: supporters questioned the timing and authenticity of the claims while other groups demanded responsibility. Notable political personalities and groups mostly refrained from making public comments right once, taking a measured approach as investigations turned out.
Could This Lead to Criminal Charges Against Schlapp?
Legal professionals have pointed out that even if several claims might show a pattern of activity, every occurrence has its own merits and should be assessed on those alone. Concerning criminal accusations, the availability of actual evidence and witness cooperation determines their probability. Schlapp has not been charged with crimes for past claims, hence the result of this matter is still unknown.
What Does This Mean for the Conservative Political Action Conference?
Allegations against Matt Schlapp have tarnished CPAC’s standing and caused internal strife and important resignations. Longtime board member Morton Blackwell left 2023 expressing worries about litigation costs related to Schlapp. Fox News and other sponsors also removed themselves, refusing to back CPAC that year. Nowadays, a lot of guests and related groups are challenging the leadership of the event. These disputes have cast doubt on the future and forthcoming activities of CPAC.
How Are Conservatives and Liberals Responding to the Allegations?
The claims of sexual misbehavior against Matt Schlapp have generated different responses depending on political inclination. Reflecting worries about the effect on the image of the conservative movement, some conservative leaders and organizations have separated from Schlapp. On the other hand, some supporters contend that the accusations reflect political motivations meant to discredit a well-known conservative leader. Public polling data as of now does not adequately capture general attitudes on these accusations. Still, the debate has spurred conversations on moral guidelines and responsibility inside political systems.
The claims made against Matt Schlapp highlight how much responsibility political groups must embrace. The way CPAC negotiates these difficulties will greatly affect public confidence and the integrity of the conservative movement.