Former US President Donald Trump on Tuesday launched a scathing personal attack against a once staunch supporter, Mitch McConnell. Calling him a "dour, sullen, and unsmiling political hack", the former President said that the Republican Party could never again be respected or strong with political leaders such as McConnell at its helm.
Having been banned from most social media platforms even as he was impeached for a historic second time, Trump's message came via a statement released by his political action committee.
It has been a month for conflicting messages. Impeached twice, former President Donald Trump was recently acquitted after the Senate voted against his conviction. Many hold him responsible for instigating a violent mob that stormed the US Capitol while they were certifying Joe Biden's poll victory, leaving five people dead, and damaging public property. But while the Democrats made every effort to strengthen their case against Trump, many believe that the vote result was a foregone conclusion.
Indeed, reports state that members of Trump's own party took naps, made frequent trips out of the chamber, or simply chose not to attend the trial. Many of his own party members also had a lot to say about Trump's recently hired lawyers. From spelling the 'United States' wrong on a defence brief (the memo was addressed to 'Members of the Unites States Senate') to making (in the words of a Republican Senator) a rambling, disorganised case for Trump - the impeachment trial saw it all.
None of this however made a difference. While a few Republican lawmakers did side with the Democrats, the Senate voted 57-43 to acquit the former President.
Soon after that however, Republican Senator Mitch McConnell who has long been an ally of the former President held him responsible for the deadly insurrection at the Capitol. Despite having voted in favour of Trump, the lawmaker appears convinced that there is absolutely no question that "President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day". He justifies his vote, contending that the Senate has no jurisdiction over an ex-president.
Over the last few months, Trump's accusations of election fraud have been rejected by judges at all levels of the judiciary, including those appointed by Trump himself. The lack of evidence however has not stopped Trump supporters.
Now, as the GOP grows increasingly fractured, it is unclear how things will play out.
While the former President has not made any official announcements about a second campaign, some speculate that Trump may even seek to form his own party.
(With inputs from agencies)
