In a tense interview on ABC’s “This Week,” Governor Chris Sununu of New Hampshire engaged in a heated exchange with host George Stephanopoulos regarding his support for former President Donald Trump. The conversation, which centered on Sununu’s backing of Trump despite various controversies, underscored the ongoing debates within the Republican Party about the former president’s influence and leadership.
During the interview, Stephanopoulos pressed Sununu on his previous criticisms of Trump, particularly his comments made in January 2021, where Sununu stated that Trump’s rhetoric and actions had contributed to the Capitol insurrection. Despite these remarks, Sununu confirmed his support for Trump as the GOP’s presumptive nominee in the upcoming presidential election, arguing that the focus should be on broader Republican governance rather than individual personalities.
Stephanopoulos challenged Sununu on how he could reconcile his acknowledgment of Trump’s role in the insurrection with his current support. Sununu responded by emphasizing the need for a shift away from current national policies, highlighting issues like inflation and border security as more pressing concerns for the electorate. He asserted that his support was not just for Trump but for a change in the national administration that addresses these critical issues.
Sununu also referenced public support for Trump, noting that 51% of Americans back the former president, suggesting that this majority sees Trump as a vehicle for necessary cultural and political change. He criticized what he perceived as media elitism that fails to understand the sentiments of the broader American public.
The interview showcased the complex dynamics within the Republican Party as leaders grapple with Trump’s polarizing figure against the backdrop of upcoming elections. It also highlighted the strategic calculations in play as party officials balance past criticisms of Trump with the pragmatic choice to support him due to his significant base within the GOP.