This was unexpected.
In a stunning reversal that’s already making waves across conservative circles, President Donald J. Trump has endorsed Senator Mike Rounds for re-election—just two years after branding him a traitor to the Republican cause.
Once considered a “RINO” by the GOP base, Rounds enraged millions of Trump supporters in 2022 when he went on national TV and claimed the 2020 election was “fair.” At the time, Trump unleashed a scathing rebuke, accusing Rounds of betraying the America First movement and promising never to back him again.
“He is a weak and ineffective leader,” Trump said in 2022. “He will NEVER receive my endorsement again.”
But politics is war—and sometimes alliances shift. On Monday, in a dramatic Truth Social post, Trump declared his full support for Rounds, calling him:
“An America First Patriot… Mike Rounds has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election – HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!”
This endorsement marks a major pivot and a sign that Trump is playing the long game as he continues reshaping the Republican Party ahead of the critical 2024 election.
Why Did Trump Change His Mind?
Some insiders believe Trump’s decision is part of a broader strategy to solidify GOP unity and weed out the most dangerous RINOs by offering second chances—but only to those who fall in line.
Others say it’s a sign of strength—not weakness—forgiving but not forgetting in order to keep the conservative movement strong and focused.
Rounds Responds
Senator Rounds didn’t waste time responding. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he thanked the President and pledged to work alongside Trump to “make America even better.”
Meanwhile, mainstream media outlets and Democrat operatives have been noticeably silent—perhaps rattled by what this endorsement could mean for Trump’s growing political dominance.
The Bottom Line
Trump’s message is clear: Loyalty to the America First agenda can be rewarded—even after past mistakes. For GOP politicians sitting on the fence, this serves as a powerful reminder: get on board or get out of the way.
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