In an unexpected twist in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, Donald Trump is losing support from individuals who once stood firmly by his side.
Geraldo Rivera, a well-known Fox News host, took to Twitter to express his thoughts on Trump’s potential comeback, stating that despite a myriad of controversies, including impeachment and felony convictions, polls indicate a tight race against Vice President Kamala Harris.
Rivera, who witnessed Trump’s rise during his 2016 campaign while appearing on “Celebrity Apprentice,” reflected on Trump’s audacity to seek the presidency, even with a tumultuous past.
He recounted how Trump transformed from a political novice to a formidable opponent, eventually defeating Hillary Clinton.
As president, Rivera maintained that Trump was a loyal ally who granted him access, leading him to cover Trump favorably during his administration.
However, Rivera’s perspective shifted dramatically post-election.
He recalled a phone call with Trump shortly after his narrow loss to Joe Biden in November 2020.
During that conversation, Trump expressed a desire to handle the election controversy rationally, but instead, he launched a relentless campaign to delegitimize the election results, rallying supporters around unfounded claims of a stolen election.
Rivera criticized Trump for misleading millions of Republicans into believing in a fabricated narrative of victory.
He pointed out that this “big lie” culminated in the January 6 Capitol insurrection, where Trump incited violence against the very democracy he vowed to uphold.
Rivera emphasized that Trump’s actions were not just a betrayal of his supporters but also a betrayal of the Constitution.
Despite the controversies, some still justify their support for Trump, citing promises of tax cuts and border security.
Rivera challenged this reasoning, suggesting that acknowledging Trump’s 2020 loss should not preclude Republicans from supporting Harris, especially if they view her presidency as a preferable alternative to another Trump term.
What makes Rivera’s endorsement of Harris particularly noteworthy is his long-standing affiliation with Fox News and his friendship with Trump.
His shift signals a potential fracture in the unwavering loyalty many have shown towards Trump, hinting at a broader trend among Republicans reconsidering their positions as Election Day approaches.
Adding fuel to the fire, Harris is set to appear on “Fox News Sunday” with Bret Baier, providing an opportunity for right-leaning viewers to engage with her policies directly.
This exposure could challenge the prevailing narratives and allow voters to see Harris as a candidate focused on middle-class issues, small business support, and climate protection.
As Rivera pointed out, Harris’s ability to articulate her vision stands in stark contrast to Trump’s often disjointed responses.
For instance, when asked about child care, Trump veered off-topic, failing to provide a clear plan, which may leave voters yearning for more coherent leadership.
The growing list of Republicans endorsing Harris includes prominent figures like d–k Cheney and his daughter Liz, alongside others like Adam Kinzinger and Stephanie Grisham.
This collective shift illustrates a significant movement within the party, as more Republicans prioritize the nation’s well-being over party allegiance.
Each endorsement adds weight to the idea that voting for Harris does not equate to abandoning Republican values; rather, it reflects a commitment to democratic principles.
Rivera’s endorsement, along with others, could inspire disillusioned Republicans to consider a different path.
As Election Day draws near, the number of Republicans distancing themselves from Trump continues to grow.
This trend suggests that the political landscape is shifting, and endorsements from notable figures may sway undecided voters in critical battleground states.
Ultimately, the implications of Rivera’s remarks extend beyond his individual stance; they represent a growing chorus of Republicans willing to break away from Trump’s influence.
As the election approaches, these voices could play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome, proving that even the most steadfast loyalty can waver in the face of fundamental democratic values.
