Donald Trump’s absence from the Republican presidential primary ballots in Nevada won’t deter his dominance, as a separate caucus on Thursday, deemed the sole valid procedure by the state’s GOP, ensures his victory.
Despite Nikki Haley’s participation in Tuesday’s primary, Trump’s uncontested win secures him another 26 delegates for the Republican convention in July.
The primary process in Nevada is poised to quietly conclude, leaving little impact beyond Trump’s assured delegate haul.
“Regardless of the outcome, it won’t make much of a difference because people aren’t particularly focused on it,” remarked Peter Loge from George Washington University. For many Americans, the highlight of the week in Nevada is the Super Bowl.
The much-anticipated American football championship between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers is expected to capture the nation’s attention on Sunday, likely becoming the most-watched TV event of the year.
The situation is further complicated by the dual process of primaries for both Democrats and Republicans, alongside a caucus exclusive to Republicans, with the outcomes largely predetermined. This complexity contributes to its limited attention.
Previously, both parties in Nevada conducted caucuses to choose their preferred presidential nominee. However, in 2021, lawmakers mandated primaries, allowing for mail-in and absentee voting.
The state’s Republican Party, aligned with Trump’s supporters and echoing sentiments within the broader GOP, opposes such measures, advocating for in-person voting as the sole method to ensure ballot integrity.
Daniel Lee, from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, suggests that this format is likely to favor Trump, a perspective not lost on observers.
“Caucus-goers are going to be those who are really fervent, like really enthusiastic, energized supporters of the candidate,” he told AFP.
“They’re the ones that are going to take the time out of their day to go to a smelly gymnasium.
“And that’s precisely the type of supporters that Trump has.”
Haley’s campaign manager said Monday the Nevada process was “rigged for Trump.”
It’s a view shared by some Republican voters in the Silver State.
“I can’t vote for my candidate in the caucus, so there’s no point in participating,” expressed Charles Fruit, a supporter of Haley, to the Las Vegas Review Journal. “They’re basically disenfranchising me, and this is happening by my own Republican party. I’m very unhappy about it.”
Results for both the Republican primary and Democratic vote are anticipated around 7:00 pm local time Tuesday (0300 GMT Wednesday), with President Joe Biden expected to secure the Democratic win after campaigning in the critical swing state over the weekend.
The Nevada Republican Party’s website indicates that caucus results will be announced on Thursday.
