Report: More Than 120 Republicans In Talks To Form ‘Anti-Trump’ Political Party

Topline

More than a hundred former Republican officials who are unhappy with the way the party has dealt with former President Trump are in talks to form a new breakaway political party, Reuters reported, a move that was mocked by the former president’s spokesperson and highlights the growing rift in the GOP between Trump loyalists and those eager to move on from the former president.

Key Facts

Chief Critic

In response to a question about the call, a Trump spokesman told Reuters that the Republicans on the call were anything but. “These losers left the Republican Party when they voted for Joe Biden,” he said.

Big Number

64%. Nearly two-thirds of GOP voters said in a Hill-HarrisX poll last months that they would join a new Trump-led political party.

Key Background

Talks of a third, anti-Trump party highlight a growing rift among Republicans. Donald Trump has always been a divisive figure but he has been able to command  an almost unwavering loyalty. Last year, droves of Republicans spoke out against the former president, vowing to vote for his opponent Joe Biden and condemning his heavy handed response to racial justice protests. Just weeks ago, there were reports that Trump himself was considering setting up a third “Patriot Party” after watching several Republicans turn on him in the wake of the January 6 riot, including outgoing Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who said he “provoked” the mob. Trump later distanced himself from the reports. With the GOP set to acquit him from his second impeachment, Trump’s allies believe his hold on the party appears on a more secure footing. They say he may seek to consolidate this power, after he previously vowed to unseat disloyal Republicans.     

Crucial Quote

“The GOP is lost in a sea of lies and has clearly become a destructive force,” McMullin said. “Whether it’s a faction operating independently of the GOP or a new party, something new is needed. The status quo is unsustainable.”

Further Reading

Exclusive: Dozens of former Republican officials in talks to form anti-Trump third party (Reuters)

Poll: 64 percent of GOP voters say they would join a Trump-led new party (Forbes)

Trump Vows To ‘Never’ Concede, Unseat Republicans Who Break With Him (Forbes)

Over 70 Republican National Security Officials Endorse Biden, Deem Trump ‘Dangerously Unfit’ For President (Forbes)