President Donald Trump withdrew his endorsement of Rep. Jeff Hurd after Hurd voted against the president’s tariffs, signaling consequences for Republicans who defy his trade agenda. That withdrawal illustrates how Trump's endorsements can be both a valuable asset and a tool for enforcing loyalty. The recent request from Senate GOP leader John Thune for an early Trump endorsement of Sen. John Cornyn highlights party leaders’ reliance on Trump’s influence even as his endorsement decisions can carry political risks.
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