#NeverTrump
Movement of Republicans and conservatives who opposed Donald Trump’s candidacy and presidency.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Peak | March-November 2016 |
| Origin | Conservative opposition to Trump |
| Leaders | Bill Kristol, David Frum, Rick Wilson |
| Outcome | Most eventually fell in line or left GOP |
Origin & Impact
#NeverTrump emerged in spring 2016 as some prominent conservatives declared they’d never support Trump, viewing him as unfit and contrary to conservative principles. The hashtag represented intra-GOP warfare as establishment Republicans, intellectuals, and principled conservatives fought his nomination.
After Trump’s election, #NeverTrump became increasingly marginalized within the Republican Party as most opposition either capitulated or left politics. The movement evolved into groups like The Lincoln Project and represented ongoing tension between traditional conservatism and Trumpism. #NeverTrump ultimately demonstrated Trump’s complete takeover of the GOP.
Related Hashtags
- #NotMyPresident
- #TheResistance
- #LincolnProject
- #TrumpIsNotFit