The coming civil war over the soul of the post-Trump GOP

In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here.

This week’s National Conservatism Conference in Washington, D.C., laid bare the battle for the GOP’s post-Trump soul. As President Donald Trump’s run as the main character of American politics — extended by four years dominating the spotlight while out of power — nears its end, the Republican Party braces for a clash over free markets, global leadership, and the definition of American identity.