Who will be stand up to be the anti-Trump, the fresh face of moderate Republicanism who can become a rallying point for traditionalists and perhaps even win the 2024 nomination?
There are names on that wing getting attention. Tim Scott, the party’s only black senator who has an inspiring personal backstory and gave a widely praised speech at the party’s summer convention, is one.
Ben Sasse, the Nebraska senator who was scathing about Mr Trump in a leaked phone call before the election and called his actions this week “wicked”, is another.
Then there are old stalwarts who may not seek the presidential nomination, like Mr Romney, the defeated 2012 nominee, but have a position of prominence to shape the party’s future.
Ultimately, it is the voters that will decide. After half a decade marching to Mr Trump’s tune, will the Republican base stick with him after Wednesday?
