Former Vice President Mike Pence on Wednesday warned conservatives against straying too far toward "unprincipled populism."
Pence spoke at The Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C.
"Conservatism is bigger than any one moment, any one election, any one person. It's about ideas," Pence said. "I truly do believe it's absolutely essential that we articulate a vision for the path ahead."
Pence, considered a possible 2024 presidential contender, said that some Republicans prefer a "simple conservative agenda" that focuses on limited government and strong national defense, while others believe the movement "should be swept along by a new and energetic sense of populism."
Saying the path ahead was "not clearly defined," Pence offered what he believes are the bedrocks of conservatism.
"Our movement cannot forsake the foundational commitment that we have to security, to limited government, to liberty and to life," he said. "But nor can we allow our movement to be led astray by the siren song of unprincipled populism that's unmoored from our oldest traditions and most cherished values.
"Let me say: This movement and the party that it animates must remain the movement of a strong national defense, limited government and traditional moral values and life."
The former vice president highlighted key aspects of his proposed "Freedom Agenda," which includes advocating for abortion bans, protecting gun rights, and pushing for school choice.
"We must do more than simply criticize and complain," Pence said. "We must unite around a bold and optimistic agenda. And that was how the freedom agenda was born."
Pence has been on the campaign trail in recent weeks — such as in Arizona with Senate candidate Blake Masters — to support GOP candidates ahead of the midterm elections.
He also has visited early primary states such as South Carolina, New Hampshire, and Iowa.
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