Disillusioned Former Republicans Gather to Stop Trump's Return to the White House
ICARO Media Group
In a bar in Denver, a diverse group of former Republicans and disenchanted party members recently came together to candidly discuss their shared antipathy towards former President Donald Trump and their determination to prevent his return to the White House. These self-proclaimed "politically homeless" individuals, many of whom reside in predominantly conservative states, found solace in being able to openly express their views and discuss their political journeys.
Becky Hofer, a former Republican from South Dakota, expressed her struggle to find like-minded individuals in her heavily red state. She reflected on how the Republican party has evolved over the past decade, lamenting the disconnect between her values and the choices of her neighbors who support Trump. The allure of tax breaks did not outweigh the moral compromises she believed were being made.
During the event, hosted by The Bulwark, a media organization opposed to Trump, attendees shared their political transformations and how they had come to support President Joe Biden. Paul Ivancie, now unaffiliated with any party, expressed leaning towards voting for Biden as the only alternative.
However, following the recent debate between Biden and Trump, these disillusioned voters faced new concerns. Biden's lackluster performance and Trump's persistent false claims left them questioning their support. Some even compared Biden's demeanor to the early signs of dementia, raising accusations of elder abuse. The debate left a sour taste, causing Robin Hawkland, who had previously found camaraderie among Bulwark listeners, and her husband to question if something had been hidden from them about Biden.
Hawkland, a health care worker, shared her decision to leave her Georgia home after witnessing Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's mistreatment of mask-wearing individuals during the pandemic. Moving to a "blue bubble" neighborhood in Utah, they registered as Democrats. However, their shifting political landscape once again left them feeling detached and disoriented.
These voters expressed no fondness for Trump, even after the debate. The recent Supreme Court ruling, granting former presidents some immunity from criminal prosecution, added to their concerns. The stakes were high, and their central goal remained stopping Trump's return to power, regardless of who their alternative candidate might be.
Tim Miller, host of "The Bulwark Podcast," suggested that the Biden campaign should court these disenchanted Republicans, as they could play a crucial role in the upcoming election. However, he also emphasized the need for Biden to improve his performance to assure these voters of his capabilities.
Sarah Longwell, a former Republican strategist and publisher of The Bulwark, echoed the sentiment, asserting that the stakes were too high not to consider all available options. The Never Trumpers and Never Again Trumpers who convened in Denver shared a common objective - keeping Trump out of the White House. Nevertheless, they remained uncertain about whether they would ultimately be voting for Biden or exploring alternative candidates.
As the dominoes of disillusionment continue to fall, these individuals find themselves trapped in a vortex of uncertainty and hopelessness. The road ahead remains challenging as they strive to make their voices heard and effect meaningful change in the upcoming election.