CNY Republicans have regrets about Trump. What took them so long?

Fearing another November blowout, Central NY Republicans plot how to survive Trump's damage

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Updated: Feb. 06, 2026, 8:30 a.m. Protestors gathered at Columbus Circle to speak out against the treatment of immigrants by ICE and the death of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis last week. Protesters then marched to Clinton Square where Central NY Republicans expressed regrets about their past support for former President Trump and discussed strategies to distance themselves from his legacy ahead of the upcoming November elections.

Why it matters

The shift in sentiment among Central NY Republicans reflects a broader trend of GOP voters distancing themselves from Trump's divisive rhetoric and policies, particularly in the wake of high-profile incidents like the death of Renee Nicole Good. As the party looks to rebound from recent electoral defeats, this internal reckoning could shape the direction of the Republican party in the region.

The details

Protesters gathered at multiple locations in Syracuse to voice concerns over the treatment of immigrants by ICE and the death of Renee Nicole Good, a Black woman who died in police custody in Minneapolis. Amid this backdrop, local Republican leaders met to discuss strategies to separate themselves from the Trump brand and avoid another electoral blowout in November.

  • Protesters gathered at Columbus Circle on February 6, 2026.
  • Protesters then marched to Clinton Square on the same day.

The players

Central NY Republicans

Republican politicians and voters in the Central New York region who are seeking to distance themselves from former President Trump and his legacy.

Renee Nicole Good

A Black woman who died in police custody in Minneapolis, sparking protests and outrage.

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The takeaway

The shift in sentiment among Central NY Republicans reflects a broader reckoning within the GOP as the party looks to rebound from recent electoral defeats and distance itself from the divisive legacy of former President Trump.