There is some overlap between the "The New Conservatism" and MAGA, particularly on issues like economic protectionism, skepticism toward globalism, and a focus on the working class. Both are critical of the elites and emphasize national pride and a focus on American interests over internationalism. However, Cass' "New Conservatism" is more methodical and long-term in its approach to governance, while MAGA is more driven by populist energy and immediate, reactionary policies. In essence, Cass offers a more structured, policy-driven vision for the future of conservatism, while MAGA is more about emotional, populist appeal with a focus on confronting perceived immediate threats, like illegal immigration or globalism. So it important to keep the two apart mentally so as not to sane-wash MAGA but without Trump bringing chaos, it offers a rationally comprehendable viewpoint?
Cass occupies a space where he's challenging both the traditional free-market right and the progressive left, which can make him a bit of a novelty. Some interviewers might not press him hard enough, either because they don't fully grasp the weak points in his arguments or because they see him as an interesting counterpoint to conventional wisdom.