Senator Mitt Romney, who has been a notable critic of Donald Trump, has publicly acknowledged that the Republican Party has undergone a significant transformation towards embracing the MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement, effectively defining the current state of the GOP.
In a recent interview on CNN's “State of the Union,” Romney stated that “MAGA is the Republican Party and Donald Trump is the Republican Party today.”
This comment reflects his recognition of Trump's influence over the party, despite Romney's personal criticisms regarding Trump's character, which he maintained in the interview.
Romney has historically distanced himself from Trump, having voted to convict Trump in both of his impeachment trials, showcasing a divide between traditional conservative values and the new populist direction under Trump's leadership.
Romney also expressed that while he did not support Trump in the recent election, he acknowledged Trump's ability to resonate with working-class voters, leading to a shift within the party's voter base.
He suggested that this shift necessitates a reorientation within the GOP, indicating an acceptance of the current political reality where Trump's influence has redefined what it means to be a Republican.
This acknowledgment by Romney is particularly poignant as he is set to retire from Congress, marking the end of his tenure as a significant voice within the party who often stood against the Trump-aligned faction.