GOP primed to back Trump if he contests election

The Republican Party is now more primed to back former President Trump if he contests the results of the 2024 election than it was four years ago, when his efforts to overturn Joe Biden’s victory fell flat in courts and Congress.

Trump’s unwavering claims about the nation’s election system being “rigged” have steadily gained more acceptance among rank-and-file Republicans voters over the past four years and his biggest Republican critics in Congress have either retired or will retire soon or have lost sway.

Additionally, Trump allies around the country have worked to gain more influence over state and local election boards, which will be in charge of tallying votes and certifying the results.

Republicans are feeling increasingly optimistic that Trump will win the election, but they are girding for an intense battle if Vice President Harris is declared the winner.