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Pro Politics with Zac McCrary

Liam Donovan Returns to Talk the Toppling of Kevin McCarthy, Odds on the Next Speaker, & State of the GOP Presidential Primary

Oct 10, 2023
Liam Donovan, principal at Bracewell and longtime insider of the Hill GOP, discusses the toppling of Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the next Speaker race, CR antagonizing GOP rebels and House Democrats, the Jordan vs. Scalise battle, possibility of McCarthy Restoration, and Trump's strength in the GOP presidential primary.
42:06

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Despite a surge in support earlier this year, the Republican primary is now firmly in Donald Trump's favor, with his loyal base making it difficult for any other candidate to gain traction.
  • Ron DeSantis had a chance to capitalize on his strong popularity but failed to seize the moment, while Nikki Haley's different approach and positive media attention are unlikely to surpass Trump's momentum in the Republican primary.

Deep dives

Trump's strength in the Republican primary

Despite a surge in support for Ron DeSantis earlier this year, the Republican primary is now firmly in Donald Trump's favor. DeSantis missed an opportunity to gain momentum and has not been able to regain ground. Trump's base remains loyal to him, and recent indictments have only reinforced their support. Trump's ability to portray himself as a victim of unfair treatment resonates with his followers, making it difficult for any other candidate to gain traction. While Nikki Haley offers a different approach with a more general election strategy, it is unlikely to be enough to challenge Trump's dominance. The primary race is increasingly leaning towards a Trump victory.

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