Sununu Affirms Trump’s Role in Insurrection Yet Maintains Support

Gov. Chris Sununu of New Hampshire made headlines on Sunday with his unequivocal support for former President Donald J. Trump, despite acknowledging Trump’s role in the January 6 insurrection and his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Speaking on ABC News’s “This Week,” Sununu emphasized that even felony convictions would not deter him from voting for Trump in the future, citing priorities such as the economy, border security, and what he termed as “culture change.”

Sununu’s stance marks a significant shift from his previous criticisms of Trump. Initially a critic who supported Nikki Haley in the Republican primary, Sununu had once questioned Trump’s authenticity as a Republican and suggested concerns about potential legal troubles. However, he has now firmly aligned himself with the former president, indicating a common trajectory seen among Republicans who have rallied behind Trump despite earlier reservations.

This transformation has not gone unnoticed, especially in light of Sununu’s earlier statements during the primary campaign for Haley. Yet, Sununu has remained resolute in his support for Trump, asserting that it should not come as a surprise given the broader context of American politics and the perceived failings of the Biden administration.

Pressed by interviewer George Stephanopoulos about supporting a figure implicated in an insurrection, Sununu stood firm in his position. While acknowledging Trump’s involvement in the events of January 6, he argued that a majority of Americans still supported Trump and underscored the significance of broader issues like inflation and border security in shaping public opinion.

Sununu’s repeated emphasis on the need for “culture change” reflects his belief that Trump’s return to office represents a shift away from what he sees as the elitism and inadequacies of the current administration. Despite recent declines in inflation, Sununu maintains that many Americans remain concerned about economic stability and view Trump as a potential agent of change.

In response to Stephanopoulos’s probing questions about supporting Trump in the face of legal challenges, including potential convictions, Sununu remained steadfast. He reiterated his support for Trump’s presidential bid, echoing his belief in Trump’s ability to address the perceived shortcomings of the current political landscape.

While Sununu’s unwavering support for Trump may seem surprising to some, he contends that it reflects the sentiments of a significant portion of the American electorate. He dismisses concerns about Trump’s legal troubles and underscores the importance of broader policy issues in shaping voter preferences.

Ultimately, Sununu’s stance underscores the enduring influence of Trump within the Republican Party and highlights the complex dynamics at play in American politics. As the country grapples with ongoing challenges and uncertainties, figures like Sununu reflect the diverse range of perspectives and priorities shaping the political landscape.