Republicans are angry. So is everyone, actually. Chanting "lock her up," The Fix's Philip Bump writes, "represents a natural way station in American politics." A recent Pew Research Survey found that 45 percent of Republicans and 41 percent of Democrats view the opposite party as a "threat to the nation's well-being."
The Republican convention erupted into tumult on Wednesday night as the bitter primary battle between Donald J. Trump and Senator Ted Cruz reignited unexpectedly, crushing hopes that the party could project unity. Please, don’t stay home in November,” Cruz said. “Stand, and speak, and vote your conscience, vote for candidates up and down the ticket who you trust to defend our freedom and to be faithful to the constitution.”
- Senator Ted Cruz was met by jeers from furious delegates, who chanted “Vote for Trump!” and “Keep Your Pledge” as it became clear that he was going to snub Donald J. Trump.
- The commotion was a jarring demonstration of just how divided the Republicans remain and was a stunning departure from modern political conventions.Mr. Cruz was all but drowned out as he asked for God’s blessing on the country and left the stage, while security personnel escorted his wife, Heidi, out of the hall.
- Indiana Gov. Mike Pence’s acceptance of the nomination for vice president should have been the capstone of the evening. But Sen. Ted Cruz’s refusal to endorse Donald Trump — and the ruckus it caused changed that.