Some Republicans who previously declared they would not back Donald Trump are reconsidering their stance for the upcoming November elections, driven by their dissatisfaction with President Biden’s policies and leadership. Eric Levine, once a supporter of Nikki Haley and a notable Republican fundraiser, has shifted his position, expressing a reluctant readiness to support Trump, as he sees no viable alternative.
Levine, who had vowed not to support Trump following the January 6 Capitol riots, communicated his change of heart to fellow GOP donors and activists, emphasizing the wisdom of keeping options open. The decision for many like Levine hinges on their level of concern over Biden’s policies, according to GOP strategist John Feehery.
The dynamics of party loyalty and election strategy are influencing these decisions, as Republican strategist Doug Heye points out, referring to the post-primary phenomenon of voters “coming home” to their party’s nominee. However, the exact number of Republicans who will return to Trump remains uncertain, yet crucial, for the likely Trump-Biden contest.
Andrew Smith from the University of New Hampshire Survey Center suggests it’s too early to gauge the final decisions of voters, but he anticipates that most anti-Trump Republicans will ultimately back him in the election.
Levine’s outreach to his network revealed a divided response among staunch Never-Trumpers, with some reluctantly acknowledging the necessity to support Trump. Before the primaries, many anti-Trump Republicans rallied around Haley, drawn by her more moderate stance and broad appeal, even attracting some Democratic voters in open primaries.
Despite previous criticisms of Trump, figures like New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, who had endorsed Haley, are signaling a shift toward Trump post-primary, emphasizing the importance of aligning with the Republican agenda over individual candidate preferences.
Efforts to sway Haley’s supporters are underway, with Biden’s campaign actively targeting this group, while Trump’s campaign, according to spokesperson Steven Cheung, focuses on criticizing Biden’s administration and highlighting Trump’s growing support.
Marlys Popma, an influential Iowa Republican and Haley supporter, believes that despite Trump’s lack of direct outreach to Haley’s followers, the preference for his policies will ultimately guide their voting decision. Levine echoed this sentiment, doubting that Haley’s supporters would switch to Biden, given the stark policy differences.
Conversely, Republican strategist David Kochel speculates that a significant number of these voters might abstain, vote for Biden, or choose a third-party candidate, underscoring the unpredictable nature of voter behavior in this election cycle.
