Donald Trump Allies 'Unnerved' by His Attack on Georgia's Governor, Fearing Fallout in Key Swing State

Donald Trump’s recent verbal assault on Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has sent shockwaves through his campaign, leaving allies and staffers scrambling to contain the potential fallout. The incident, which insiders are calling a "nuclear explosion," has many in Trump's camp worried that the former president may have severely damaged his re-election prospects in the crucial swing state of Georgia.

The controversy began when Trump, angered by a report that Kemp's wife might write in her husband's name on her ballot instead of supporting Trump, decided to lash out publicly. Despite advice from his closest aides to let the issue slide, Trump seized the opportunity during a speech in Georgia to attack Kemp, labeling him as "a bad guy," "disloyal," and "a very average governor."

These remarks have raised alarm bells among Trump’s supporters, who are acutely aware of Georgia’s importance in the upcoming election. Kemp, a popular figure in the state, played a key role in maintaining Republican control and helped to assemble a coalition of traditional Republicans and independents—voters whom Trump desperately needs to win over to secure Georgia’s electoral votes.

The backlash from Trump’s tirade was immediate and intense. According to a report by Politico, Trump's allies were quick to recognize the potential damage his comments could inflict. Many urged him not to escalate the situation further, fearing that continuing to feud with Kemp could alienate crucial voters. Despite these warnings, Trump pressed on, leading to what some within his campaign have described as a turning point in his re-election efforts in Georgia.

In the days following the incident, the Trump campaign found itself in damage control mode. Reports indicate that campaign staffers reached out to Georgia legislators, asking them to post positive messages about Trump’s rally on social media. These requests were met with resistance, as many Republicans in the state were reluctant to align themselves with Trump’s attacks on their popular governor.

The situation has left Trump’s team facing increased pressure to find a way to repair the rift and ensure strong support in Georgia. With Kemp controlling a well-oiled turnout operation in the state, the lack of cooperation between the governor and the Trump campaign could prove to be a significant hurdle.

One Georgia GOP operative noted that the situation places added stress on Trump’s organization in the state, as they must now navigate the election without the support of the incumbent governor. Another Republican insider emphasized the challenge this creates, warning that the Trump team will need to work harder to secure a victory in a state that is critical for his path back to the White House.

As the election draws nearer, the consequences of Trump's "nuclear" moment in Georgia remain uncertain, but the anxiety among his allies is palpable. With the stakes higher than ever, the former president’s ability to recover from this misstep could determine his fate in the 2024 race.