"Republicans Shift Focus from Trump as Campaign Discussion Evolves"

Many rank-and-file conservatives are eager to see Republican candidates without Donald Trump dominating the conversation, expressing a desire for the party to wrestle with its identity and choices rather than hand Trump a third consecutive nomination without a fight. While some still support Trump, there is an expansive middle of the party open to new options but that has supported Trump in the past and would likely vote for him again in a general election if he becomes the nominee. The challenge for Trump's rivals is to win enough support to avoid splintering the GOP base, as the party seems poised to ride with Trump a third time and unsure about how to embark on a different direction.