Who Will be the Republican Nominee if Donald Trump Doesn’t Get Elected?
You might think it would be Vance, but in recent days, Republicans have indicated otherwise.
The most pertinent question in the air is: Who cares as long as Trump departs this earth? Perhaps sooner is better.
Potential Republican Nominees
You’d need someone who was oblivious to the MAGA movement, possibly someone out of politics or at least protected by their mid-term status, such as a Senator not up for re-election soon. Three candidates come to mind: former governors Christie or Sununu, and former presidential candidate and soon-to-depart Senator Romney.
There certainly might be others, but I hope it will be a real challenge instead of the great un-posed question.
Republican Party's Devotion to Trump
There seems to be a fetish for Trump. No matter what he does, Republicans get excited about him. In 2020, the party's platform was literally one sentence about Trump's policies making America great. The party has arranged itself to make Trump its center despite most Americans feeling repulsed.
In the unlikely event that the party can move on in 2024, they would likely go with the last person standing, with Nikki Haley possibly being the next president. If it’s 2028 or later before Republicans move on, it'll likely be someone boring and 'normal' like an accountant with nerdy political skills.
Nikki Haley as a Potential Nominee
Haley was the last Republican standing, so maybe she will be the nominee. However, don't hold your breath waiting for the orange chaos to go quietly. 'Poison ivy is hard to get rid of.' She may be the lesser of many evils.
Historical References and Complicating Factors
Ronald W. Reagan and George H.W. Bush could hypothetically run as his Vice President, but this is purely based on the fact that they are deceased and thus can't hurt anyone. Other historical figures like Eisenhower are mentioned for their past success and stability, but ultimately, this sentiment is tinged with a desire for Trump and his 'pack of domestic terrorists' to be crushed into the mud.
Even the best Republican isn't very good in 2024. All the good ones are gone at this point.