It’s hard to remember a political candidate who held such intense support with the Republican Party than Donald Trump. In his first campaign to win the Republican primary, he was quite easily the most controversial candidate with some republicans being slightly off-put with his rashness while others were instantly hooked on how he always spoke his mind. After winning the primary and eventually the presidency, it seemed like he had won the hearts and support of almost all republicans in the country.

Among those fans in his presidency were congressman Devin Nunes of Tulare County and David Valadao of Kings County. Throughout Trump’s presidency, they have shown their devout support towards him. And Trump acknowledged this by even awarding Devin Nunes a US Medal of Freedom.

But when it comes to David Valadao’s view on Donald Trump, it has changed drastically due to recent events. With the riots happening at the Capitol on January 6th, many people pointed the finger towards Donald Trump for promoting the riots. The vast danger this riot caused of course immediately made Congress get together to try to impeach Trump for their endangerment.

Unlike the last impeachment which dragged on for a long time, one month and two weeks. His second one only got past the vote in a few days. Aiding to the quickness of the return of votes was David Valadao and 9 other Republicans who voted to impeach Trump, a stark difference from his first impeachment where no republicans voted.

Valadao commented on the situation by saying, “President Trump was, without question, a driving force in the catastrophic events that took place on January 6.” He added, “His inciting rhetoric was un-American, abhorrent, and absolutely an impeachable offense.” This was immediately brought into controversy with multiple other republicans in his district of Kings County vocalizing their displeasure with this, and the need for a new republican who backed Trump. This potential in-party fighting between pro and anti-trump republicans can mean trouble for the future.

Due to how polarizing Trump is, it’s hard to see a better candidate than most Republicans can rally behind. One less radical will certainly put some off, the same goes for one even more radical. With recent rumors of Trump potentially wanting to start a new political party to distance himself from his opposing republicans, it could be a long bumpy future for republicans as they try and rebuild their foundation within their own party.