WASHINGTON, DC - As Republican voters gear up to nominate Donald Trump for president for a third consecutive election cycle, the GOP establishment, including skeptics in the Senate, navigates the stages of grief. Trump’s decisive victories in Iowa and New Hampshire have solidified his position, compelling figures like Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, a former Republican whip, and a critic of Trump’s electability, to endorse him. “The most important thing we can do is to replace Joe Biden,” Cornyn stated, underlining the party’s shift towards unity.

Senate Minority Whip John Thune of South Dakota, who had initially endorsed Scott, now acknowledges Trump’s commanding lead. “I’ll support the nominee,” Thune said, echoing the party’s rallying call. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky remains more reserved, avoiding definitive statements about Trump’s candidacy amidst his legal challenges.

Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, a Republican leader, hasn’t endorsed Trump but expressed support for Biden’s GOP opponent. The GOP’s alignment behind Trump, despite his legal entanglements and divisive tactics, underscores a strategic political calculus.

In the snowy battlegrounds of Iowa and New Hampshire, Trump’s near-absolute victory over rivals, including Nikki Haley, reveals his persistent appeal. Haley’s struggle to close the gap, trailing by ten points, casts doubt on her viability, especially in the upcoming South Carolina primary.

The anticipation of “Super Tuesday” fades as Trump seems set to clinch the nomination before his legal cases begin. This early victory could influence the Supreme Court’s impending decision on Trump’s eligibility, previously decreed ineligible by Colorado and Maine.

Financial Times highlights Trump’s dominance among registered Republicans, despite his underperformance with voters outside his core base. Haley, with a more traditional conservatism, appealed to moderates, and performed better in areas with fewer Republicans, indicating potential challenges for Trump in the general election.

Trump’s ascendance signals a shift. His appeal to populist, protectionist ideologies, and reluctance to embrace social integration reflect a broader, troubling trend.

In summary, Trump’s swift path to the GOP nomination, despite legal challenges, reflects a party realigning under his influence. His continued support from the Republican base, coupled with the strategic acquiescence of party leaders, demonstrates the enduring strength of his political brand. As the world grapples with rising populist tides, Trump’s candidacy becomes a barometer for the health and direction of global democracy.