Ponnuru has written on wide array of political and policy topics, appeared on numerous public affairs and news interview programs, and is a widely respected voice on conservative policy. In recent years, his profile has risen even higher and he has been widely praised for breaking with his party with his highly informed and uncompromising criticism of President Donald Trump, saying his conscience would not let him do otherwise. In 2015, " Politico Magazine" listed both him and his wife, April Ponnuru, as two of the "Politico 50" influential leaders in American politics. It has been the first and only time ever that a husband and wife appeared on the list at the same time.