Trump is the top choice among GOP county leaders for the 2024 GOP nomination.

Former President Donald Trump Leads Republican Presidential Candidates

Former President Donald Trump is currently leading the pack of Republican presidential candidates, garnering significant support from county GOP leaders. According to Politico, Trump has secured 29% of their support, while Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) follows with 13.7% and other candidates trail behind with 10.7%. However, a substantial 46.6% of county GOP leaders remain undecided.

Survey Results

The survey, conducted by Seth Masket, the director of the Center on American Politics at the University of Denver, consisted of 133 respondents and took place in June. Since the previous survey in April, the number of undecided voters has dropped below 50%, indicating a shift in support. Both Trump and DeSantis have seen gains in their respective percentages.

Among the candidates being considered by county GOP leaders, DeSantis currently leads the pack with 61% support, although this is a slight decrease from his 67% in April. Trump follows closely behind with 53% support, while Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) has gained momentum with 46% support, marking a significant 19.4% increase since the previous survey.

Preferences for Nomination

When asked about their preferences for the nomination, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie emerges as the least favored candidate, with 57% of county GOP leaders expressing their opposition. Former Vice President Mike Pence follows with 42%. Notably, Trump’s numbers have seen the most significant jump in this statistic, with 38% of county GOP leaders stating they do not want him to win the nomination, compared to 29% in April.

Despite the growing number of declared candidates in recent months, Trump has maintained a commanding lead over the GOP field. The RealClearPolitics polling average currently places Trump at the forefront with 53%, followed by DeSantis with 20.9%, and Pence with 6.1%.

As the candidates continue their campaign efforts in early primary states such as Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina, the first Republican debate is scheduled for August 23 in Milwaukee.

While candidates strive to qualify for the debate, Trump’s participation remains uncertain. In contrast, DeSantis, Trump’s chief rival in the Republican field, has confirmed his intention to participate regardless of Trump’s presence.

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