There are numerous studies on populist parties in the literature in political science. However, the notion is still characterized by a lack of clarity and many aspects of populism are still unexplored. A minimal definition can facilitate the classification of parties, but this is mainly realized on the basis of manifestos and discourses delivered during an electoral campaign. Yet, populist parties increasingly gain access to power and, according to the literature, they tend to adapt their own strategies or style in order to remain in power. It thus becomes important to question their role once they are elected. Because very few studies have analyzed that issue and because it is the populist party with the strongest links with executive and legislative powers, this article focuses on the Swiss People’s Party (SVP / Schweizerische Volkspartei, or UDC in French). Through a thematic analysis and based on original data, the article discusses the following issue: what relationship does the SVP develop with radical right populism when in power? It thus addresses the radical right populist aspect of the SVP beyond the electoral period.