After latest meeting with Trump, should Republicans fear for their political lives? | The Tylt
A meeting designed to establish unity between Donald Trump and House Republicans before the Cleveland convention quickly devolved into conflict and animosity.
Should Congressional Republicans fear for their political lives?
Trump's statements about immigration, Latinos, and his fabled wall have made life difficult for GOP members. Many down-ticket Republicans are facing serious reelection challenges and fear being tied to a presidential candidate who's alienated Latino groups and other minorities. These congressmen wanted reassurance that Trump would hear their concerns and try to address them—but they got no such thing.
The Washington Post reported Trump "admonished three senators who have been critical of his candidacy and predicted they would lose their reelection bids." Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake reportedly urged Trump "to stop attacking Mexicans." A spokesperson for Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) told reporters afterwards "this election remains a dumpster fire."
But the Post also reported that House Speaker Paul Ryan "thought [Trump] did a great job engaging with our members, and I think our members appreciated it.” The Washington Times claims the meeting was very positive. And apparently Trump is not worried about his terrible numbers with Latino voters: "He said Hispanics love him," Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA) said.
Are congressional Republicans going to go down with the ship if Trump sinks it? Or can they weather a Trump candidacy?
