RIP MAGA? Stunned US right contemplates life after Trump

The Republican Party suffered historic midterm losses, far surpassing even the most optimistic Democratic predictions, marking a turning point in their relationship with former President Donald Trump. (EPA Images pic) Washington: Has the MAGA fervor finally dissipated? Will the American right abandon Trump's populist ideology and embrace more conventional conservatism?

After a crushing defeat in midterm elections centered around one man, many Republicans are now questioning the party's future and Trump's role in shaping it. News outlets like the Wall Street Journal, known for their establishment right-wing views, have called for introspection and urged a break from the xenophobic, identity-driven rhetoric that fueled Trump's ascent to power.

The Journal's editorial board emphasized that tariffs and mass deportations are inadequate replacements for improving real incomes. They also stressed the need to appeal to Hispanics, independents, and suburban swing voters who abandoned the party during the midterm elections.

The White House, however, opted for a more defiant stance. On social media, Trump posted a stern image with the caption "Trump is still your president," reinforcing his continued role until January 2029. Yet, the political cycle remains relentless. Wednesday marked the commencement of the 2028 campaign, which will ultimately decide Trump's successor. With the Constitution barring him from running for a third term, Trump's political future appears uncertain.

In an in-depth X post, Vice President Kamala Harris' potential 2028 rival, Kamala Harris, took aim at Trump without directly naming him. She attributed the losses to the war, acknowledging Trump's own admission. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warned of an "extinction-level event" for Republicans and suggested waiting until 2032 to regain control of Congress.

Republican lawmaker Don Bacon echoed this sentiment, calling for a return to Reagan-era principles. Voters had rejected populism, chaos, and Trump's tariff policies. Former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who now openly opposes Trump, warned that the GOP must expel Trump from the party if it hopes to secure future victories.

While criticism of Trump remains relatively restrained, some Republican leaders are contemplating distancing themselves from the former president. Amy Dacey, a former Democratic official now advising American University, observed that some House and Senate Republicans may distance themselves from Trump, as their influence could wane with his declining popularity.

Despite this, the shift away from MAGA fervor may take time, as many influential figures have tied their fortunes to Trump since 2016. The extent to which MAGA supporters, both online and in real life, will adapt remains to be seen.