Death of the Normie: Paul Gottfried at the New York Young Republican Club

On February 2nd, paleoconservative political philosopher, historian, and writer Paul Gottfried gave a lecture at the New York Young Republican Club entitled “Death Of The Normie.” Gottfried aspired to dismantle familiar political labels, arguing that neither “moderate Democrats” nor “natural Republicans” truly exist by tracing the origins and endurance of these myths and showing how they obscure genuine ideological commitments and voting patterns. The lecture focused on the collapse of the political center and its implications for coalitions, party loyalty, and America’s political future. Since I am fortunate enough to know Mr. Gottfried in person, I will respectfully refer to him as Paul from this point forward. Paul argued that the idea of “moderate Democrats” is largely a political myth promoted by conservative media and political strategists. Using figures such as Josh Shapiro, Andy Beshear, Gretchen Whitmer, and Abigail Spanberger as examples, Paul claimed that politicians labeled as moderates still advance socially progressive policies such as DEI initiatives, LGBTQ protections, immigration restrictions on enforcement, and reproductive rights, thereby coinciding with the broader political left rather than occupying a true center.

Paul also criticized conservatives who praise Democrats (like John Fetterman) as pragmatic or reasonable, arguing that doing so shifts the political baseline leftward and risks portraying Republicans as extremists by comparison. Paul believes that acknowledging degrees of radicalism is different from celebrating the “lesser evil.”

Paul’s second major argument challenges the notion of “natural Republicans,” specifically the belief that certain demographic groups (especially Black voters and some Jewish voters) would support the GOP if they recognized their “true interests.” He suggested that these groups remain aligned with Democrats because of perceived material benefits, emotional appeals tied to victimhood, and longstanding political identities. Therefore, Republicans should stop trying to convert unlikely voters and instead mobilize dependable constituencies such as white evangelicals and low-turnout conservatives.

Overall, Paul concluded that the GOP harms itself by trying to appear inclusive or by seeking approval from opponents. Instead, it should accept political polarization, focus on reliable voters, and abandon what Paul regards as comforting but unrealistic political illusions. As Paul concluded his lecture, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to hear from a scholar who knows more about the conservative movement than anyone I have ever met.