DALLAS — The full spectrum of the American right was on display Saturday at the second day of the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas — as everyone from Caitlyn Jenner to members of extremist groups mingled at the gathering.
Jenner’s appearance at the Trump-centric convention comes amid a long-shot bid to unseat California Gov. Gavin Newsom in a recall election. Jenner said on Friday she wouldn’t seek the endorsement of Trump, who is headlining CPAC on Sunday.
In the lobby of the Hilton Anatole near downtown Dallas, Jenner mingled with supporters before walking over to the convention, where she did a few television interviews.
“My campaign is extraordinarily serious,” Jenner told a group of reporters. “I have spent the last three months, four months, studying, working on the issues, getting involved, going out, meeting with the people, doing press. Gavin Newsom is the worst governor we’ve had in the history of California, and we need to change that.
“Thank you for standing up in California!” one woman shouted at Jenner in the hotel lobby.
But, out of her earshot, some were less receptive toward the former Olympic champion decathlete, who is arguably the most prominent transgender conservative in America.
One woman took a selfie of herself with Jenner in the background, while smiling and calling Jenner the name she went by before she transitioned. Another woman approached a member of Jenner’s staff and said, “Are you with him?” while pointing at Jenner.
Jenner didn’t appear to hear either comment.
Members of two different extremist groups also were seen roaming the CPAC exhibit hall Saturday. Stewart Rhodes, the leader of the Oath Keepers militia, and two men with hats bearing the insignia of the Proud Boys, the far-right group known for participating in street brawls with leftist activists.
Members of both groups have been implicated for their alleged involvement in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
Rhodes’ presence at the conference was first reported by Salon on Friday, which also reported that high-ranking CPAC officials were seeking guidance from federal officials about Rhodes’ presence at the convention.
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