Donald Trump Begins Republican Primary Campaign

Former President Donald Trump has embarked on the campaign trail ahead of the 2024 election.

The Details: After announcing his campaign in November, Trump officially hit the campaign trail this weekend with stops in New Hampshire and South Carolina. Both events were more intimate affairs than his usual rallies, seemingly aimed at connecting with key supporters.

For Context: So far, Trump is the only Republican who has officially announced his campaign. In some head-to-head polling, Trump trails Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (Fla.), who seems poised for a presidential campaign of his own. DeSantis and Trump have historically been allies, however, Trump has described DeSantis’ expected candidacy as "disloyal."

Key Quotes: When asked about having to potentially face former allies like DeSantis, Mike Pence, or Nikki Haley, Trump has said "My attitude is, if they want to do it, they should do it. I have a good relationship with all of them." Rally attendee Michael Skinner said, "In a perfect world, Trump and DeSantis together? That would be unstoppable. But will their egos let them do it?"

How The Media Covered It: Across the spectrum, outlets agree that Trump’s popularity was at a low near the end of 2022, and that DeSantis is a formidable opponent. Right-rated outlets seem more optimistic about Trump’s current position. A writer for the Washington Free Beacon said Trump may fare better in a multi-candidate race because Republicans are reluctant to attack him directly, and that Republicans and Democrats should carefully remember his unlikely primary victory in 2016.