Show #167: Why Candidate Quality Matters: ICA’s Approach to Conservative Leadership and Transparency

Welcome to another episode of the Carolina Cabinet! In this lively and insightful discussion, host Peter Pappas is joined by special guest co-host Laura Musler and a panel of notable guests from the Independent Conservative Alliance (ICA): Bobby Hurst, Jackie Taylor, and John Szoka. Together, they dive into the purpose and process of the ICA, a political action committee dedicated to finding and supporting qualified, conservative candidates in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and beyond.
You'll hear first-hand how the ICA differs from the local GOP, what criteria they use to endorse candidates, and why their rigorous vetting process matters to voters and donors alike. The panel doesn't shy away from hot topics, addressing recent backlash and misconceptions about the relationship between the ICA and the Republican Party, as well as the realities of running for office, raising funds, and building a campaign team.
Tune in for a candid conversation about local politics, the challenges facing conservative candidates, and the importance of transparency, experience, and community engagement—plus a few behind-the-scenes anecdotes that showcase just how much dedication goes into strengthening local representation. Whether you're a political junkie or a casual listener, this episode brings you inside the cabinet for Cumberland County’s smartest hour of talk radio!