When we tracked Trump endorsements in 2020, it seemed that, as a sitting president, his choices were random and often made at the 11th hour. Sometimes, he skipped entire states, endorsing none of the candidates, even incumbents. Out of office, with more time (and probably more freedom) his choices seem more deliberate. For that reason, I think they’re a clearer picture of his vision for the GOP and, therefore, really informative. But as Alex just mentioned — even when Trump isn’t getting involved, Trumpian politicians are still running and winning, so his influence is already baked in.
