Republican Senator Mitt Romney recently penned an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, calling on Republican megadonors and influencers to take proactive measures during the party’s presidential primary. Romney emphasized the importance of candidates agreeing to withdraw from the race if their paths to the nomination become unattainable. He proposed that this decision should be made no later than February 26, shortly after the contests in Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina.
Romney’s concern stems from the crowded GOP field in 2016, which ultimately contributed to former President Donald Trump securing the party’s nomination. With the 2024 election fast approaching, there is a substantial possibility of history repeating itself. Trump presently holds a significant lead in polls, and there are currently twelve relatively well-known contenders in the running.
Nonetheless, Romney remains hopeful that another Republican candidate could emerge victorious if the primary field narrows down to a two-person race before Trump secures the nomination completely. Additionally, Romney took the opportunity to criticize Trump’s motivations and age, stressing the need for a nominee with character and a drive for something greater than personal matters. Ideally, this individual should represent the next generation of Republican leadership.
Romney contends that it is ultimately up to family members, close friends, and campaign donors to urge “lost-cause” candidates to exit the race. Following February 26, they should begin taking action to consolidate support behind viable contenders. Romney, who himself was the Republican nominee in 2012, believes that this proactive approach is crucial for both the resilience of their party and the betterment of the nation.
To stay updated on relevant developments:
Now read: DeSantis cuts a third of his presidential campaign staff as he mounts urgent reset
And see: Biden’s age is figuring ‘prominently’ in the 2024 White House race — but here’s what the pundits could be getting wrong
