So-called “Constitution-First” Republicans are uncomfortable with Trump’s abuses of power. They could be the key to a pro-democracy coalition that cuts across party and ideology.

President Donald Trump’s grip on the Republican party hasseemed absolute.

But his consistent disregard for constitutional and societalnorms might be leading to genuine fissures within the GOP.

A new report by the nonprofit Public Agenda and the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University, based on focus groups and surveys involving more than 4,500 Americans, identifiesan emerging three-part typology within the Republican party:

· “Trump First” Republicans who are the core of the MAGA base;

· “Party First” Republicans, whose partisan loyalties outweigh their personal devotion to Trump; and

· “Constitution First” Republicans, conservativeswho are increasingly uncomfortable with Trump’s behavior in office.

These Constitution First Republicans—who make up 34 percent of the party—have the potential to be an effective counterweight to extremism within their party.

Host: Anne Kim, Senior Editor, Washington Monthly

Guests: Andrew Seligsohn, President, Public Agenda; Sarah Bryner, Director, Public Agenda

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Research and Its Purpose

02:55 Understanding the GOP Typology

06:39 Contrasting Republican Groups: Trump-First vs. Constitution-First

10:26 Media Consumption and Its Impact on Political Views

14:16 Engagement Strategies for a Healthy Democracy

19:44 Hope for American Democracy: Insights from the Research

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