In 2010, the Republican Party in the US stood for free markets, constitutional governance, and the transatlantic alliance. A decade later, it had changed beyond recognition following Trump’s rise to power. How did the Republican Party transform from a mainstream political force into a personalized movement centered around Donald Trump?

To guide us through this transformation, we’ve invited Adam Pontius, a PhD candidate in political science at CEU and former campaign consultant.

At this event, Adam will discuss:

• How internal party battles eroded the Republican establishment’s authority
• How Trump used the void to reconstruct the political identity
• What this case reveals about the collapse of democratic legitimacy in the US
• Why institutional frameworks alone can’t safeguard democracy once trust breaks down

The event takes place with support of Dialogbuero Vienna
🕔 November 4th, 19:00
📍 Eßlinggasse 9/6, 1010 Wien, Dialogbüro, 2nd floor
✍️ Free entry upon a sign-up: see the button below
🗣 Event language is English

About the speaker:

Adam holds an MA in International Relations from CEU (2021). His MA thesis explored Woodrow Wilson, ontological security, and the anxiety of settler states. His broader academic interests include Historical International Relations, political narratives, reactionary political thought, sovereignty, and international security. Before his Ph.D. Adam worked as a political consultant and independent researcher for over a decade. In this role, he has designed and managed complex research projects, including data analysis and management, and has provided political analysis. This background shapes his perspective and research hunches. He has published professional analysis in outlets such as Responsible Statecraft.

Adam earned his BA in Political Science from Elmira College