Never Trump Republicans are still issuing dire warnings. Is anyone listening? - AP News
AP News
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Never Trump Republicans continue to sound the alarm about former President Donald Trump's influence within the GOP, despite his defeat in the 2020 election and his subsequent departure from public office. These critics argue that Trump's ongoing role in shaping Republican policies and messaging poses significant risks to the party's future. Their warnings come at a time when many Republicans appear more focused on political unity and the potential for Trump to make a comeback, often dismissing these concerns as overblown or irrelevant.
The "Never Trump" faction emerged during Trump's presidency as a vocal minority within the Republican Party who opposed his unconventional leadership style, his polarizing rhetoric, and what they viewed as ethical lapses. Even after Trump left office, many of these critics remained convinced that his legacy would harm the party in the long run. They point to issues such as decreased voter turnout among moderate Republicans, internal divisions within the GOP, and a growing disconnect between the party's brand and mainstream American values.
However, the question remains: is anyone listening? Many voters, both inside and outside of the Republican base, seem more focused on immediate political concerns, such as economic recovery, inflation, and crime rates. Trump's continued influence on social media and through his own political organization has also muted some of the criticism from Never Trumpers, as many Republicans view him as a unifying figure capable of mobilizing voters in key battleground states.
Despite these challenges, Never Trump Republicans argue that their warnings are more relevant than ever. They point to rising partisanship in Washington, increasing ideological extremism, and the potential for future political instability if Trump's influence continues to dominate the party. For readers interested in understanding the ongoing dynamics within the Republican Party, these warnings highlight the delicate balance between unity and internal conflict that could shape the party's future.
Ultimately, the debate over Trump's legacy underscores a broader tension within the GOP: whether to move beyond the divisiveness of his presidency or to continue leveraging his political power for short-term gains. The outcome of this struggle will not only determine the direction of the Republican Party but also have significant implications for American politics as a whole.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/22/2026