A Blueprint for New Fusionism to Reunite the Republican Party

The article argues that the GOP’s current internal tensions require a “new fusionism” that blends old-guard conservatives with newer populist elements to forge a sustainable coalition.

Internal disputes among Republicans—ranging from self-identified Reaganites opposing Trump’s tariffs to younger activists questioning his foreign-policy legacy—signal a fracturing of the coalition that propelled Trump to power. Historical parallels are drawn to Ronald Reagan’s 1970s-80s coalition, where an uneasy partnership between establishment conservatives and new arrivals eventually produced lasting dominance. Recent primaries illustrate the shift: former establishment candidates like Nikki Haley and Mike Pence performed poorly, while Trump-endorsed figures such as JD Vance, Bernie Moreno and Matt Dolan captured victories.

To keep the party viable, the author outlines a “new fusionism” that merges traditional supply-side policies with populist economic tools like targeted tariffs, expanded child tax credits, and reshoring incentives. Fiscal reforms would also aim to trim benefits for high-earning seniors while preserving core social programs. By reconciling these divergent strands, the GOP could secure future majorities in presidential, Senate and state elections.