17. Matt Schlapp

Matt Schlapp is the Chairman of the American Conservative Union (ACU) and a leading figure in American conservative politics. As Chairman of the Conservative Political Action Committee (CPAC) he hosts pro-Israel voices and Israeli politicians at his annual conference. Following the October 7, 2023 Hamas massacre in Israel, Schlapp publicly condemned the attacks, stating, “Israel was viciously attacked on October 7th. Israel has the right to defend itself. Peace is only possible if Iran is defanged.” Under his leadership, the ACU has passed resolutions supporting Israel and advocating for recognition of Jerusalem as its capital. Schlapp emphasizes the importance of standing with Israel in the face of terrorism and has been a vocal advocate for the Jewish state. His efforts extend beyond rhetoric, mobilizing conservative support and strengthening the U.S.–Israel partnership.

Photo credit: Gage Skidmore