The ascendancy of Donald Trump in GOP ranks has caused
considerable consternation. What is a
conservative to do?
Of course, Donald Trump is not one. Besides having a history of financial and
verbal support for liberals and their policies, he’s been a Republican convert
for only a few years and still takes stands to the left of Hilary Clinton.
So, although a President Trump’s support for a rightward
agenda – and conservative court nominees – is more to be hoped than expected, he
will head the GOP ticket.
To disown him, as the writers of National Review and The
Weekly Standard are inclined to do, may be emotionally and intellectually
satisfying. However, it will probably
not be helpful in promoting conservative principles.
Of course, Donald Trump doesn’t “deserve” our allegiance. But turning our backs won’t help secure the
support of voters for other GOP candidates on the ballot. We need them to be elected to thwart Mrs.
Clinton or, as improbable as this prospect now appears, be a check on President
Trump.
GOP candidates need Trump’s voters.
If they choose to endorse Trump, so be it. Such are the demands of politics and their
survival is desirable. If the political
decision is justified by hope that Trump will have a conservative epiphany. I, too, wish (unrealistically, I know) it
comes to pass.
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