Gail Collins: Bret, I have a feeling this is the last time I’m going to ask you about the Republican presidential primaries. Things seem to be winding up fast. Ron DeSantis is out — don’t think we’re gonna miss him.
Bret Stephens: Nope.
Gail: If DeSantis weren’t such an awful candidate, this toppling of his campaign might be a little sad. But as it is, it’s — sorta dull, actually. DeSantis’s endorsement of Donald Trump as “superior to the current incumbent” wasn’t exactly moving.
Bret: The Trump endorsement was dishonorable but probably inevitable, politically speaking. If Trump wins the presidency, DeSantis will have to live with him as a governor; if Trump loses, he can try to court Trump’s voters in 2028. That’s assuming Trump isn’t on the ballot in 2028.
And of course, there’s still a certain governor from South Carolina ….
Gail: New Hampshire’s tomorrow, and even if Nikki Haley wins, it isn’t very likely she’ll be going any further. Which means Trump will, for all practical purposes, be the nominee by the middle of this week. You want to offer up any positive thoughts?
Bret: I have none.
Gail: Aw, c’mon. I know you’re anti-Donald, but at least tell us something chipper the rational part of your side is thinking.
Bret: I think you’re referring to an essay I wrote called “The Case for Trump … by Someone Who Wants Him to Lose.” Some readers accused me of “normalizing” Trump. But it was written in the spirit of Know Your Enemy.
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