As a matter of fact, there is a role that Former President Donald Trump can play in the Republican Party and in the United States if he chooses to take it. That is the role of an Elder Statesman.
An Elder Statesman is a man, usually retired, is one who gives advice to those who are serving their state, country and world. Trump, as a one term president, could occupy the role once served by George HW Bush, who recently passed away or Gerald R. Ford who also recently passed away.
There are now five former US presidents living. Jimmy Carter, who is nearing the Century Mark is frail and well respected, in spite of only serving one term himself. George W. Bush, whose presidency gains more respect as time rolls on is the only other former Republican president still serving. The other two Elder Statesmen that served in the presidency are Bill Clinton and Barrack Obama.
Even though many people now consider Trump to be one of the worst presidents in history, once the angst of his election fades, his status will likely improve. It will be tough to be worse than the string of presidents which proceeded the US Civil War in the eyes of history. Only if Trumps actions actually lead to a Civil War would his presidency be considered worse. There will be some tough things that will always taint his legacy.
In order to transition to the role of an Elder Statesman, Donald Trump will need to have a sense of humility, be somewhat repentant about his mistakes and own up to them. Unfortunately, this is something which is very un-Trump like. It will have to be the Donald Trump that we have not yet seen. Rumors of a third party are springing. This is what I will address next.
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