Most Missouri delegates think Cruz made a mistake in speech
Missouri Republicans reacted with shock, sadness and some support Thursday following Sen. Ted Cruz’s decision to withhold a formal endorsement of presidential nominee Donald Trump.
Cruz spoke to the convention Wednesday but declined to formally support Trump. The speech drew boos and catcalls from Republicans on the floor.
Some Missouri delegates were among them.
“I do think it was a mistake for him to proceed the way he did,” said John Hancock, a Missouri delegate and chairman of the Missouri GOP. “It may leave a lasting bad impression for Ted.”
Susan Klein, a Missouri alternate delegate, said Cruz had been a good candidate, but “I think it’s time to get behind Donald Trump and move forward.”
Hardy Billington, a delegate from Poplar Bluff, said he “really likes” Cruz, but “I really wish he had went ahead and did that (endorse Trump).”
Not all Missouri delegates were disappointed with Cruz’s decision.
Chris Yaudas, a delegate, worked for Cruz in Missouri. “I loved the speech,” she said. “You’re never going to make everyone happy. If he had said he endorsed Trump there would be detractors.”
Carl Bearden is a leader of the never-Trump effort in Missouri. “I think (Cruz) stuck to his principles,” Bearden said. “Ted Cruz has been a consistent conservative and you saw that last night.”
But the majority of the delegation appeared to believe Cruz made a mistake. Republicans have sought unity throughout the week, and for some it still seems out of reach.
David Baker, a delegate from Belton, said, “I feel bad for Ted. I wish he would endorse. I think it would have been better, but I also admire Donald Trump for letting him speak.”
Delegates spent their morning breakfast rehashing the events and discussing the future of Cruz and their party. Most said they expected Trump to rally the convention in his acceptance speech Thursday night.
Dave Helling: 816-234-4656, @dhellingkc
This story was originally published July 21, 2016 at 8:25 AM with the headline "Most Missouri delegates think Cruz made a mistake in speech."