The Republican establishment has worried for weeks that Donald Trump — a combustible blend of media personality, business tycoon and insurgent politician — was pushing the GOP out of the mainstream and crushing its ability to expand its appeal.
When Trump unexpectedly jumped to the front of the crowded Republican field, party officials and several of his rivals remained silent even as his coarse comments about Mexican immigrants threatened to alienate the fastest-growing segment of the electorate. Now, Trump’s latest comments threaten to offend military veterans and others crucial to the GOP’s chances of retaking the White House.