Republicans in New Hampshire Struggle to Halt Trump’s Momentum

Acknowledging Donald Trump’s dominant position, nervous Republicans in New Hampshire, including officials within the governor’s office, are making efforts to prevent the former president from securing victory in the first-in-the-nation primary. However, their current approach seems to rely mostly on hope and prayers.

Mike Pence, Trump’s former vice president, recently attempted to revive his presidential campaign in New Hampshire by appealing to voters’ faith during small gatherings. Despite more than a dozen high-profile Republicans eyeing New Hampshire as a potential place to thwart Trump’s path to a third nomination, none have been able to challenge the aura of inevitability surrounding him, even with his mounting legal challenges.

A significant portion of the Republican electorate remains open to a new presidential nominee, one with less baggage than Trump. Nevertheless, months after some contenders entered the race, there is little indication that any of them have gained significant traction.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, often seen as the strongest alternative to Trump, has faced financial challenges and stagnant poll numbers, leading to staff layoffs. Meanwhile, Trump’s hold on the party has appeared to strengthen, even as he faces the possibility of a third criminal indictment.

For Mike Pence, the burden of Trumpism has weighed heavily on his campaign. A recent poll by the University of New Hampshire showed him barely registering among voters, and he acknowledged not having enough donors to qualify for the upcoming presidential debate.

Pence has faced criticism from both Trump loyalists and critics. Those who dislike Trump view Pence as an enabler of his behavior during his vice presidency, while Trump supporters blame him for not blocking the certification of Joe Biden’s victory on January 6, 2021.

New Hampshire, known for supporting political underdogs, has historically provided a chance for candidates to break through. However, the road to relevance for anyone other than Trump in 2024 appears steep.

Pence is attempting to reintroduce himself to New Hampshire voters and is trying to distance himself from Trump by focusing on conservative values and a return to traditional Republican principles. He aims to gain support through individual donations but faces significant challenges in the crowded field of candidates.

Despite the uphill battle, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu believes that primary voters often finalize their decisions closer to the primary date, offering hope for those seeking to halt Trump’s momentum. With the primary still six months away, there is time for the political landscape to shift.

Pence, in his efforts to make a comeback, is leaning on faith, emphasizing the nation’s religious principles and urging the party to return to its conservative roots for a successful future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about struggling Republicans