MAGA Allies Question Trump's Endorsement Power

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According to a report, Republican candidates and loyal MAGA influencers no longer view former President Donald Trump's endorsement with the same value it used to have. Two candidates who previously received Trump's endorsement, Gina Swoboda and Karrin Taylor Robson, have since switched races or dropped out, with MAGA allies like Laura Loomer and state Sen. Jake Hoffman criticizing and attacking Swoboda. The report suggests Trump's endorsement may be losing some of its power, as candidates and their allies are no longer willing to let Trump have the final word on his preferences.

Why it matters

This shift highlights the growing divisions and infighting within the MAGA movement, as well as the potential weakening of Trump's influence over the Republican party. It suggests that even the former president's endorsement may not carry the same weight it once did, potentially impacting future GOP primaries and elections.

The details

According to the report, Gina Swoboda dropped out of her race for Arizona's 1st Congressional District after receiving Trump's endorsement, and instead announced she would run for Arizona Secretary of State. Meanwhile, Karrin Taylor Robson, who was also endorsed by Trump, cited a desire to avoid a 'divisive' Republican primary when she dropped out of the race for Arizona governor. The report suggests that Trump has responded to backlash from far-right figures by extending his support to a second, more ideologically pure candidate in these races, undermining the value of his initial endorsement.

• Swoboda switched races the day after Robson dropped out of the primary to oppose Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs.
• The report was published on February 16, 2026.

What’s next

The report suggests that Trump's endorsement power may continue to be challenged, as candidates and their allies become more willing to question or even defy his preferences in GOP primaries.