His potential rivals, notably Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, have been sparking enthusiasm among Republican voters and, just as importantly, raising money from enthusiastic donors. In a series of Republican Party primaries this year, Trump played the role of kingmaker, largely succeeding in his efforts to boost like-minded candidates. As Florida’s governor, DeSantis has fought against abortion rights, social media companies and the teaching of race and gender in the classroom. To some Republicans, DeSantis at age 44 looks more like their party’s future than Trump does. Add to the mix Pence and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who may appeal more to establishment-minded Republicans than Trump does.

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