After a long and contentious primary season, Donald Trump emerged victorious as the Republican Party’s nominee for President of the United States. Throughout the campaign, Trump faced off against a number of formidable opponents, many of whom were once considered front-runners in the race. Despite their defeat, however, Trump’s former rivals have come together to show a united front in support of his candidacy.
One of Trump’s most vocal critics during the primary season was Senator Ted Cruz of Texas. Cruz and Trump engaged in bitter exchanges on the campaign trail, with Cruz famously calling Trump a “pathological liar” and a “narcissist.” However, since dropping out of the race and endorsing Trump at the Republican National Convention, Cruz has been working to rally support for the nominee, urging his supporters to get behind Trump in order to defeat Hillary Clinton in November.
Another former rival who has now thrown his support behind Trump is Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey. Christie, who was one of the first prominent Republicans to endorse Trump after dropping out of the race himself, has been a staunch defender of the nominee, appearing at rallies and events on his behalf. Despite their past differences, Christie has made it clear that he believes Trump is the best choice for President and has urged other Republicans to put aside their reservations and support him.
Perhaps the most surprising show of support for Trump has come from former Governor Jeb Bush of Florida. Bush, who was once seen as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination before being overshadowed by Trump, has been critical of the nominee in the past, calling him a “chaos candidate” and a “bully.” However, Bush has now stated that he will be voting for Trump in November, citing the importance of keeping Clinton out of the White House.
While it is clear that there are still some lingering tensions between Trump and his former rivals, the fact that they have come together to support his candidacy is a significant development. In a party that has been deeply divided by Trump’s unorthodox candidacy, the show of unity from his former opponents is a sign that Republicans are starting to coalesce around their nominee.
As the general election approaches, Trump will need the support of all Republicans in order to defeat Clinton and win the presidency. While there may still be some lingering doubts and reservations among some in the party, the fact that his former rivals are now standing behind him is a positive step in the right direction. Only time will tell if this unity will be enough to propel Trump to victory in November.