Speaking in the cabinet room last week, Donald Trump was clear about one political future: his own. “It’s not going to be me,” he said of the 2028 Republican presidential nomination.
Yet in the same breath, he fueled speculation about his movement’s future, suggesting the next GOP standard-bearer was “probably sitting at this table” among his current advisors.
This tension—between Trump’s immediate dominance and the looming battle to succeed him—signals that the jockeying to define the “Make America Great Again” movement after Trump is already underway. The warning signs of strain are growing.
Last month’s local elections saw the Republican Party lose ground with the minority and working-class voters central to Trump’s 2024 victory.
Within his team, feuds over policy have erupted, and key allies have begun to distance themselves. Most notably, Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has broken from his orbit, accusing the president of losing touch with the Americans who gave him power.
These internal frictions are sparking broader concern. On Monday, The Washington Post asked in a headline: “MAGA leaders warn Trump the base is checking out.
Will he listen?” While Trump has long prided himself on an intuitive connection with his supporters, the months ahead will test that bond like never before.
Ultimately, the coming challenges pose a direct threat to more than just his agenda. Trump’s entire political legacy is now at stake.
By James Kisoo
