Opinion: Trump exit? Yes, possible if following his narrative: not ‘dropping out’ but ‘walking away from a rigged election’

To the editor: Richard Hasen describes Trump’s withdrawal from the race as “very unlikely.” I believe Hasen is in for a surprise. ( “What happens if Trump drops out?” Opinion, Aug. 5)

Trump’s formal withdrawal announcement will come as soon as he is convinced his sinking poll numbers signal the demise of his election. Trump has articulated he despises “losers.”

It’s easily predictable he will not allow himself to become one.

As Trump said in Ohio this month: “I’m afraid the election’s going to be rigged.”

Walking away from a “rigged election” perfectly fits the Trump profile of defending himself from being treated “unfairly.”

Trump’s exit will be a win-win.

He can brag of his victory over a rigged system and many Americans will win by getting a better night’s sleep.

William Goldman, Palos Verdes Estates

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To the editor: This Democrat would be ecstatically, deliriously happy, and deeply grateful, if Clinton would drop out of the race.

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Myriam Soler, Los Angeles

To the editor: Hasen argues Hillary Clinton would have an “enormous advantage” if Trump’s name lingered on the ballot after he, hypothetically, drops out of the race.

The nomination process is long and arduous. Once the candidates are selected, the voting public is weary of both major candidates. It seems patently unfair that a candidate from one party could quit and be replaced by another who has not gone through that same process. The natural inclination of many would be to gravitate to the fresh face, leaving the remaining candidate at a disadvantage. The only fair result, perhaps, is to allow the candidate who came in second during the nomination process to replace the exiting one. In the hypothetical situation, this would be Ted Cruz.

Catherine Green, Santa Ana

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