In a surprising move, Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine has announced that she will not endorse former President Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential election, even if he becomes the Republican nominee. Collins, known for her moderate stance, was one of seven Republicans who voted to convict Trump during his Senate impeachment trial in 2021, accusing him of inciting an insurrection.
When asked by The Hill about her support for Trump following his victory in the New Hampshire primary, Collins firmly stated, “I do not at this point.” Instead, she expressed optimism about the campaign of former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, highlighting Haley as the only alternative to Trump currently. Collins did not, however, outright endorse Haley.
Collins has been critical of Trump in the past, particularly regarding his pledge to pardon those involved in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Despite her reservations, other Republican senators have rallied behind Trump following his strong performance in the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary.
Senators John Cornyn of Texas and Deb Fischer of Nebraska both endorsed Trump after his convincing win in New Hampshire, with Fischer stating, “It’s time for Republicans to unite around President Donald Trump and make Joe Biden a one-term president.” Cornyn echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for Republican unity in order to defeat the Democratic nominee.
Additionally, Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana joined his colleagues in endorsing Trump, declaring the primary race “over” and expressing his support for the former president. Despite her losses in Iowa and New Hampshire, Haley remains determined to stay in the race, even with the possibility of a disappointing home-state primary defeat in South Carolina on February 24.
As the 2024 presidential campaign continues, it remains to be seen how Collins’ decision not to endorse Trump will impact the Republican Party’s unity. While some senators have chosen to support the former president, Collins’ refusal to do so highlights the divisions within the party. With dozens of states left to hold their primaries, the race for the Republican nomination is far from over.
Digital’s Jon Brown and Bradford Betz contributed to this report. Chris Pandolfo is a writer for Digital. For more updates on the 2024 campaign trail and exclusive interviews, subscribe to our newsletter.
