Former House Speaker Paul Ryan delivered a stark warning on Tuesday, asserting that the Republican Party would face defeat in the presidential election if Donald Trump were the nominee. Ryan, who left office in 2019 and had a tumultuous relationship with Trump, expressed concerns about the potential for hard-right Trump supporters to trigger a government shutdown within days.
Ryan’s Perspective and Hope for a Fresh Face
Critical Assessment of Trump’s Fitness for Office
Speaking at an event on the University of Wisconsin campus, Ryan emphasized the need for a new face in the upcoming election. He conveyed his hope that another Republican nominee would emerge early next year, gaining sufficient momentum to surpass Trump after the initial primaries. Ryan, who represented southeastern Wisconsin in Congress for two decades, including four years as speaker, underscored the importance of honesty, ethics, and moral leadership, criticizing Trump for not embodying these qualities.
Potential Outcome in a Trump vs. Biden Matchup
Prediction of a Biden Win in a Trump vs. Biden Race
Expressing doubt about Trump’s suitability for the presidency, Ryan suggested that a contest between Trump and President Joe Biden would likely result in a victory for the latter. He argued that leaders should exemplify honesty, ethics, and morality, qualities he believes Trump lacks. Ryan further predicted that winning over suburban voters, particularly in swing states like Wisconsin, would be crucial in the upcoming election.
Assessment of Trump’s Popularity Among Suburban Voters
Questioning Suburban Support Since January 6
Ryan questioned whether suburban voters, a pivotal demographic, had become more favorable toward Trump since the events of January 6. Citing the lack of support from these voters in the previous election, he expressed skepticism about a shift in their preferences.
Concerns About a Looming Government Shutdown
Accusations of Nihilism Against Hard-Right Republicans
Ryan voiced concerns about the looming threat of a government shutdown, attributing it to the hard-right followers of Trump in Congress. He criticized this faction for its apparent disinterest in governance and finding solutions. With just five days remaining before the shutdown deadline, Ryan pointed out the absence of alternative proposals from Republicans in Congress, describing the situation as a form of “nihilism.”
In his closing remarks, Ryan lamented that such actions make Republicans appear ineffectual and unable to govern.
COMMENTS