Peggy Noonan Criticized for Defeatist GOP Strategy Ahead of Midterms
Peggy Noonan urged GOP to oppose MAGA candidates, drawing parallels to Reagan-era tactics.
2 min read
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, a growing chorus of critics is sounding the alarm over the Republican Party’s internal divisions. Peggy Noonan, a prominent Wall Street Journal columnist and longtime conservative voice, has found herself at the center of this debate. In a recent column, Noonan openly called for the defeat of MAGA-backed candidates, a stance that has drawn sharp criticism from political observers and former GOP allies.
A Pattern of Defeatism
Noonan’s call for GOP establishment support against MAGA candidates has sparked a wave of backlash, with many pointing to a similar strategy during the final years of the Reagan administration. Critics argue that this approach reflects a deeper disdain for the base and a preference for the party’s traditional elite.
“Her latest column is why I marvel at my overly generous nature,” remarked an anonymous source in a PJ Media discussion thread. “A woman who calls herself a conservative Republican while openly cheering for her own party to get crushed on Tuesday.” This sentiment echoes a long-standing critique of Noonan’s political stance, which has been described as a blend of establishment loyalty and contempt for the party’s grassroots supporters.
Shared Ties to Reagan Era
Noonan’s career has been closely tied to the Reagan era, with her writing some of the most iconic speeches of the 1980s. This connection has drawn comparisons to George Will, another prominent conservative commentator who once criticized Reagan for his age and political appeal. Both figures have faced accusations of undermining the very voters they claim to represent.
“The word that gives the game away is ‘cleansed,'” noted one critic, referring to the common refrain among establishment figures that the party needs to be ‘cleansed’ of its more populist elements. This sentiment has been used to justify the marginalization of conservative voices within the party, despite their growing popularity among voters.
Political Realities and Consequences
Despite the criticism, Noonan’s stance highlights the ongoing tensions within the GOP. As the party grapples with its identity, the contrast between establishment priorities and grassroots support continues to shape its political landscape. The midterm elections will serve as a critical test of this internal divide, with voters ultimately deciding the party’s future.
Source: PJ Media
