"Trump's Staying Power and the Second Republican Debate: GOP Donors and Longshot Candidates Grapple"

Republican donors are expressing concern over the size of the field and the growing difficulty of overcoming former President Donald Trump's lead in the polls as the second GOP presidential debate approaches. Some donors worry that the window for a Trump alternative to emerge is narrowing, highlighting the divide between the Republican base's populism and the pragmatic view of longtime party donors. While some donors have opposed Trump and spent millions on anti-Trump advertising, they are hesitant to join any anti-Trump faction in the general election. The upcoming debate is seen as an opportunity for candidates to persuade donors of their viability, but many donors remain uncertain about backing a single Trump rival.