I never cease to be amazed at how popular opinion is not only systematically wrong but gobsmackingly out of date.
Assuming that DeSantis and Haley want to live to fight another day, the smart thing for each of them is to withdraw after NH and endorse Trump. Haley will do herself nearly irreparable damage going into her home state and getting 20% of the vote. Better to withdraw ahead, and I say this as a Haley voter. DeSantis too. The party’s leaders are all lined up with Trump — Cruz, Rubio, Tim Scott, etc. — because this is all so obvious by now that it should go without saying.
I guess it depends how much money super donors throw at them to remain in as spoilers.
I’ve never had anyone throw huge sums of money at me - but I imagine it is very tempting. The idea that money is the root of all evil may have some merit - but money also solves a lot of problems - a lot of life’s worst worries and fears just evaporate.
I have some fabulously wealthy neighbors and believe me - not having to worry about money is a HUGE plus. Sure, tragedy can strike the rich and powerful - but there is a whole host of worries and fears that they are completely insulated from.
So, if you are trying to understand why these Republicans stay in the race when it is politically stupid to do so - I will suggest $$$ are the answer.
If you have a large political war chest left over after a failed run for office, the money doesn’t get returned - and as long as you hold out hope of a future run for office - there are infinite ways to legally make your life easier by writing things off as campaign expenses.
O top of that, the donors have infinite ways of contributing that skirt the off oak campaign contribution rules - stock tips - special deals on properties or ventures - payments for speeches and appearances. These politicians all seem to wind up rich one way or another.