Open infighting erupted among prominent conservative figures at the first Turning Point USA AmericaFest conference since the death of founder Charlie Kirk. Erika Kirk, the new chief executive, called for unity, but tensions quickly escalated as Ben Shapiro and Tucker Carlson traded barbs from the stage. Shapiro harshly criticized Carlson and other conservative personalities, accusing them of promoting conspiracy theories and dishonesty, particularly in relation to Kirk's death. Carlson responded by mocking Shapiro's tone and defending his own actions, while also denouncing cancel culture and calls for deplatforming.

The discord highlighted deepening divisions within the conservative movement, with Candace Owens also coming under fire for her controversial comments about Kirk's death. Despite Erika Kirk's efforts to maintain peace, the event was marked by public disputes and accusations, signaling ongoing fractures within the party. The summit's contentious atmosphere stood in stark contrast to the unity and optimism expressed at last year's gathering.