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Tara Setmayer is a nationally recognized political commentator, keynote speaker, and media personality who has built a reputation as one of the most compelling conservative voices in America. A former GOP communications director on Capitol Hill, Tara brings insider knowledge of how Washington works—and doesn’t work—to her media analysis and speaking engagements.
She served as a senior advisor to The Lincoln Project and has appeared regularly on CNN, MSNBC, ABC, HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher, and Fox News, where her sharp insights and fearless commentary have earned her respect across the political spectrum.
Known for her candid, no-nonsense style, Tara unpacks the forces shaping U.S. politics, from the rise of populism to the role of media and misinformation. She also speaks passionately about leadership, integrity, and the importance of defending democratic values in polarized times.
Drawing from her personal journey and professional experience, Tara delivers thought-provoking keynotes that leave audiences better informed, inspired to engage, and equipped to navigate today’s complex political landscape.
Tara Setmayer is a distinguished political analyst, commentator, and former CNN political contributor renowned for her insightful commentary and deep understanding of American politics. With a career spanning over two decades, Setmayer has established herself as a trusted voice in the media landscape, offering astute analysis on a wide range of political issues.
Her expertise, coupled with her engaging speaking style, makes her an ideal choice for keynote addresses, panel discussions, and corporate events. As a sought-after speaker, Tara Setmayer brings a unique perspective and unparalleled insight to the stage.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Tara Setmayer developed a passion for politics and public service from an early age. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the University of Connecticut, where she honed her skills in political analysis and communication.
Setmayer’s career in politics began on Capitol Hill, where she served as Communications Director for Congressman Dana Rohrabacher and Press Secretary for Congresswoman Jean Schmidt. Her experience navigating the complexities of Washington, D.C., laid the foundation for her future endeavors in political commentary and analysis.
Setmayer’s media career took off when she joined CNN as a political commentator, where she provided expert analysis on a wide range of topics, including national elections, congressional affairs, and the intersection of politics and culture. Her incisive commentary and fearless advocacy for conservative principles earned her widespread acclaim and established her as a prominent voice in American media.
Setmayer’s contributions to CNN, along with her frequent appearances on other major networks, solidified her reputation as a respected commentator with a keen understanding of the political landscape.
In addition to her media work, Tara Setmayer is also an accomplished writer and speaker. She is a contributor to The Hill, providing insightful commentary on current events and political developments. Tara Setmayer commentary has been featured in various media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Politico.
As a speaker, she captivates audiences with her compelling insights, engaging storytelling, and unwavering commitment to truth and integrity.
In summary, Tara Setmayer is a highly respected political analyst, commentator, and keynote speaker whose expertise, insight, and passion for public service make her a compelling choice for a wide range of events and audiences. Represented by Speakers Inc, Setmayer offers engaging presentations that inform, inspire, and empower attendees, leaving a lasting impact on individuals and organizations alike.
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Former GOP communications director and political commentator Tara Setmayer joins The View during Hot Topics to discuss President Trump’s upcoming first speech to Congress, his use of divisive rhetoric, dog whistle politics, media attacks, and the responsibility of Republicans to hold him accountable.
Host:
“Joining us in Hot Topics is a woman who President Bannon calls part of the opposition party, and Trump thinks is one of the enemies of the people. Please welcome Tara Setmayer.”
Tara Setmayer:
“Who the hell knows what’s going to happen tonight? That’s part of the allure of Trump—people tune in just to see what he’ll say. But now it has real consequences. I worked on Capitol Hill for seven years, and while this isn’t officially a State of the Union, it’s treated similarly. Normally, it’s about setting an agenda. With Trump, it’s usually about him. His advisers are probably begging him just to read the script.”
Host:
“Will Democrats react like Joe Wilson’s ‘You lie!’ moment with Obama?”
Tara Setmayer:
“I hope decorum holds. Call me old-fashioned, but I respect our institutions. Trump has set an awful precedent already. We don’t need Congress devolving further.”
Panelists:
“Why should Democrats play nice when Republicans didn’t?”
Tara Setmayer:
“Because two wrongs don’t make a right. Look for him to say ‘infrastructure spending’—that’s his outreach to the left. He’ll also talk about defense hikes to appease the right.”
Host:
“His inaugural speech was very dark. Will tonight’s tone be lighter?”
Tara Setmayer:
“Asking Trump to be lighter is like asking Darth Vader to be cheerful—it’s relative. But pay attention to his guests. He’s invited family members of people killed by undocumented immigrants. That’s dog whistle politics, suggesting immigrants are criminals. But studies show immigrants commit fewer crimes than native-born citizens.”
Panelist (pushing back):
“But what about victims like Jamil Shaw’s son, killed by an illegal gang member?”
Tara Setmayer:
“Those tragedies are real, but anecdotal. The broader data shows immigrants are less likely to commit crimes. We can’t build policy on isolated cases.”
Host:
“Trump also attacks the media constantly.”
Tara Setmayer:
“That’s rich coming from someone who used to call tabloids under fake names to plant stories about himself. He lies constantly, then demonizes the press. It’s a deliberate tactic to discredit the fourth estate, which our Founders enshrined in the First Amendment to hold government accountable.”
Panelists:
“Wouldn’t it be smarter for him to laugh off media bias and look bigger?”
Tara Setmayer:
“Exactly. If he brushed it off, he’d look strong and make the media look small. Instead, he looks petty, and subscriptions to outlets like the New York Times are going up.”
Host:
“Why do Republicans still support him?”
Tara Setmayer:
“As a lifelong conservative, it’s heartbreaking. Too many have compromised integrity for political expedience. But telling the truth in this climate is revolutionary. Republicans must be held accountable. Voters need to remind them at town halls and through calls and emails that they work for us. Without us, they’re nothing.”
Host:
“Thank you, Tara. Come back soon.”
0:20 – Tara previews Trump’s first address, says it’ll be about him, not agenda
1:30 – Calls for decorum in Congress despite Trump’s precedent
2:15 – Predicts focus on defense hikes and infrastructure spending
3:00 – Explains “dog whistle politics” and critiques Trump’s invited guests
5:10 – Pushback on anecdotal crime stories vs. broader data on immigrants
6:40 – Criticizes Trump’s attacks on the press as discrediting the First Amendment
8:00 – Says Republicans compromise integrity; urges voters to hold them accountable
She speaks on American politics, the future of conservatism, media and populism, leadership, and women in politics.
Yes. She often connects themes of leadership, integrity, and navigating complexity to business, media, and organizational settings.
As a conservative voice critical of extremism, Tara bridges divides and provides fresh, honest analysis that resonates across the political spectrum.
Absolutely. Tara is skilled in dynamic formats including fireside chats and moderated panels.
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