One of groups backing the #NeverTrump movement still refuses to accept that Donald Trump is the presumptive nominee, arguing that his nomination is “not inevitable” despite his victory in Indiana and Sen. Ted Cruz’s suspension of his campaign.
Conservatives Against Trump, a group led by GOP strategist Liz Mair, released a statement saying that the group is “dismayed” at Tuesday’s results, adding that the group will “continue to pursue” a nominee via an open convention in July.
“Conservatives Against Trump are dismayed at tonight’s result, but not deterred,” wrote spokesperson Deborah DeMoss Fonseca. “Polling continues to show that a huge swath of Republicans want a candidate other than Trump to run against Hillary Clinton in November — and this is to say nothing of the countless independents to which the party will need to appeal in order to prevail. ”
“We believe a Trump nomination is not inevitable despite tonight’s result,” Fonseca wrote. “We believe that an open and fair convention can produce a viable Republican candidate. As a coalition, we will continue to pursue this goal.”
The statement also pointed out Trump’s “remarkable weakness” in parts of the country, particularly in swing states of Ohio, Virginia, Colorado and Iowa. The also pointed out Trump’s unfavorable ratings, which they say are topped only by David Duke, a former grand wizard of the KKK.
“Trump is a walking, talking, in-kind donation to Hillary Clinton and the Democratic Party. His nomination is one that Republican delegates and voters should not sign off on,” the statement read. “The GOP must not nominate a reckless political opportunist, who does not share our values or vision.
“Trump primarily seems to be pursuing the presidency as if it were some sort of new hobby designed to satisfy his great psychological need for attention and affection,” Fonseca said.
The group’s statement contrasts with comments from RNC chairman Reince PriebusTuesday night, who called Trump the presumptive GOP nominee and asked for the party to unite around him against Hillary Clinton.
