2020 Election

[Dill]

(08-01-2020, 12:17 PM)Benton Wrote: That's the rough spot for the party going forward.

While there's dozens of candidates considering running every four years, there's only a few who have the connections, funding and popularity to realistically launch a bid. Trump's opposition and attitude towards ... well... most people will likely knock some of those out. And, as you mention, a lot of folks will be wary of backing someone like Graham for fear of repeating the last few years.

You raise another factor here I had not considered. Even if Trump is not himself running, his endorsement will be a powerful pro AND con for any Republican running. His presence will continue to split the party. Those like Graham will be easily (and rightly) represented as without backbone--the guy who stood with his pal McCain until Trump didn't like it. He'll have no appeal outside SC--and it's not clear his own state will re-elect him as Senator now.

(08-01-2020, 12:17 PM)Benton Wrote: On the bright side, it may be a reformation of the party. Hopefully, party leadership has realized the importance of the under-represented  portion of their base (middle class and lower class workers), and will move towards legislation that supports their needs more and away from laws that benefit top earners. 

LOL Hope springs eternal.  There will be a reformation of the party, but it may take 8 years, not be effective until the 2028 election--especially if Dem governance proves minimally effective over 2021-24, and returns Americans to a sense of normalcy and international respect.