Trump's possible 2024 presidential bid could leave the GOP hanging in the balance

President Donald Trump may be leaving the White House in January but he may be an intimidating presence for the Republican Party for years to come. In the near future, the 2024 presidential election appears to be the next looming problem for Republican leaders and lawmaker, according to Politico.

Since Election Day, Trump has waged war against any Republican who refuses to align with his arguments questioning the legitimacy of the presidential election which leaves many officials, lawmakers and wealthy donors in fear of possible repercussions that could arise when the next presidential run occurs. However, the next election isn't the only problem.

Reports have already suggested that Trump is mulling over kicking off his next presidential bid during a counterprogram that will likely take place the week of President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration, according to two people with insight on the president's conversations.

The publication also reports that the president is also considering the timing of his announcement to align with the upcoming Georgia runoff in an effort to increase voter turnout. Trump's hold on his "ultra-loyal base" and his defining role in the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement could also determine the future of the Republican Party, which could make it difficult for other lawmakers who aspire to run for the presidency.

Without Trump, future Republican candidates could be fighting an uphill battle to connect with the party's voter base. Jon Thompson, a former aide for the president who parted ways with the Trump reelection campaign months ago, recently weighed in on the weight of trump's presence.

"If he starts holding grudges against sitting officeholders and donors who decline to throw their support behind him, it is going to put Republicans in a bind," said Thompson.

The publication warns also warns that "it could be a taxing few years for Republicans, with GOP institutions that are expected to remain neutral having to grapple with Trump's grip on millions of voters, not to mention the insults he hurls at those who fail the loyalty tests."