Been trying (and failing) to objectively describe why GOP's attempt to rid themselves of Trump is self defeating

I'm a lifelong Dem, I'm not some closet Romneyite (hopefully that unnecessary disclaimer helps)

The problem is very simple: Trump is popular w/ base GOP

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As I've noted, the base sees impeachment as a capitulation to the media which they see at best as shortsighted, and at worst as weakness

This dynamic is not going to change. The media remains the most salient target the GOP has to rile up its base

A lot of centrist columnists have penned columns that say "we need a rationale GOP"

But what does that mean?

In practice that means a Romney standard bearer who loses graciously...but that Washington Generals model is the reason you got Trump!!

The idea of a non-Trumpy GOP is fantasy b/c the suburban voters who once powered the GOP are gone

With cultural issues now ascendant, why would they go back to the GOP when they can be Dems &, as leaders of that party, now push for slight fiscal conservatism (eg SALT repeal)?

In summary: The GOP can't become anti-Trump b/c they will simply not win elections

A Niki Haley-Larry Hogan ticket is winning 170 EVs. They'll concede very graciously and upper class white Rs can hold their heads high at parties

...but that is not a long-term plan