Dr. Anila Ali, President and CEO of the American Muslim & Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council (AMMWEC), and veteran journalist Wajid Ali Syed, CEO of Abrahamic Publications, attended a special event featuring former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

AMMWEC Delegation — National Press Club
Dr. Anila Ali
Dr. Anila Ali
President & CEO, AMMWEC
WS
Wajid Ali Syed
CEO, Abrahamic Publications

During the event, Dr. Ali had the opportunity to meet Vice President Pence, who was invited to discuss his newly released book, What Conservatives Believe, as well as the future direction of the Republican Party and key national and international issues. They discussed issues particularly related to interfaith harmony

Pence Rules Out a 2028 Run

In his remarks, Pence announced that he would not seek the presidency in 2028. Instead, he said he intends to use his influence to help steer the Republican Party back toward what he described as traditional conservative principles, expressing concern about the growing influence of right-wing populism within the party.

Many Americans are uncertain about the meaning of conservatism today.

— Former Vice President Mike Pence

Praise — and Reservations — on Trump Administration Policy

Pence praised several policies of the current Trump administration, including its approach toward Iran, support for Israel, extension of tax cuts, and efforts to strengthen border security. At the same time, he voiced reservations about certain economic and foreign policy trends, including broad tariffs, government intervention in private enterprise, and what he described as isolationist rhetoric regarding U.S. support for Ukraine.

Pence’s Remarks — Key Points
  • Will not seek the presidency in 2028
  • Intends to help steer the GOP back toward traditional conservative principles
  • Praised Trump administration’s Iran policy, support for Israel, tax cuts, and border security
  • Expressed reservations on broad tariffs, government intervention in private enterprise, and isolationist rhetoric on Ukraine
  • Emphasized limited government, constitutional rule of law, strong national defense, and American global leadership
  • Called this moment a “new time for choosing” between traditional conservatism and populist politics
  • Closed with a citation from the Book of Jeremiah, tied to America’s 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence

Defining Conservatism in 2026

Addressing broader ideological questions, Pence argued that many Americans are uncertain about the meaning of conservatism today. He emphasized the importance of limited government, constitutional rule of law, a strong national defense, American leadership on the global stage, and the protection of traditional values and liberties.

The former vice president also reflected on the upcoming discussions surrounding the 2028 presidential election, urging Republicans to focus first on the principles they support before choosing future leaders. He characterized the current moment as a critical period for the Republican Party, calling it a “new time for choosing” between traditional conservatism and populist politics.

A new time for choosing between traditional conservatism and populist politics.

— Former Vice President Mike Pence

A Biblical Close, Tied to America’s 250th Anniversary

Concluding his address, Pence cited a verse from the Book of Jeremiah and encouraged conservatives to rediscover the foundational principles that have guided the movement for decades. He said that as the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the values that have shaped the nation and continue to influence its future.

The event brought together journalists, policy experts, community leaders, and members of the public for a wide-ranging discussion on American politics, foreign policy, and the evolving conservative movement.

Watch — Full Event Coverage