Published 10:50 IST, February 29th 2024

GOP Completes Shift Towards Trump as Former President Solidifies Influence

Trump's dominance within the GOP has been underscored by his resounding victories in key primary contests.

Reported by: Sagar Kar
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Ex US President Donald Trump. | Image: AP
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The Trumpification of the Republican Party has reached its culmination, marking a pivotal moment for the GOP as former President Donald Trump solidifies his grip on the party's leadership and direction.

This development holds significant implications as the GOP gears up for the November elections, with every influential Republican leader now either handpicked by Trump or openly aligning with him, signifying a dramatic shift within the party.

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A look at the context

The latest shift comes as Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell announced his decision to step aside from his leadership role in November, paving the way for a Trump-approved successor. Senators John Barrasso, John Cornyn, and John Thune, the leading contenders for the position, have already pledged their support to Trump.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, another Trump-approved figure, swiftly garnered the former president's endorsement after assuming the speaker's gavel. Moreover, Trump loyalists are poised to assume control of the Republican National Committee, further cementing Trump's influence within the party.

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Trump's dominance within the GOP has been underscored by his resounding victories in key primary contests, including a dominant win in Michigan and South Carolina. The overwhelming support he has received in these early contests solidifies his position as the frontrunner for the GOP presidential nomination.

Former rivals of Trump have fallen in line too 

According to a report from Axios, even former presidential rivals of Trump have fallen in line, chasing his endorsement as they vie for influential party positions. This shift has been acknowledged by prominent GOP figures, including former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and McConnell himself, who recognize the prevailing political dynamics within the party.

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As the GOP continues to align itself with Trump's brand of politics, the Republican Party undergoes a transformation towards a more MAGA-centric ideology, reflecting a seismic shift in American politics.

10:50 IST, February 29th 2024