Matt Schlapp, chairman of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), faces serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving younger men. Carlton Huffman, a Republican campaign staffer, claims Schlapp sexually abused him, a charge Schlapp denies. Huffman’s lawsuit alleges Schlapp’s misconduct includes an incident where he attempted to kiss a male employee without consent and another where he undressed to his underwear and made unwanted physical contact with a man.
CPAC’s Internal Struggles and Public Backlash
The lawsuit implicates the American Conservative Union (ACU), organizers of CPAC, for being aware of Schlapp’s behavior but failing to act. This negligence is believed to have led to the resignation of several CPAC board members and a significant staff turnover. CPAC, known for its anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, has seen its reputation tarnished, with prominent figures like Ted Cruz and Donald Trump Jr. making transphobic comments at the event. The scandal has cast a shadow over the conservative conference, reflecting internal contradictions within the movement.