Back in 2016, the delegates to the convention had a lot of "establishment" insider types who would have been happy to hand the nomination to someone other than Trump if they could have gotten away with it. By 2024, the entire establishment is behind Trump and would give the nomination to the Trumpiest surrogate possible in the unlikely scenario of him being forced out, maybe even to someone who promises to resign in favor of Trump once elected.
That's the thing though - they aren't entirely behind him. Publicly they may say they support him, but behind closed doors, he is widely hated and many just wish he'd go away. They know what a drag he's been on the party. But they know publicly speaking out against him will end their career. But if there is an opening to take him out, like a conviction or health emergency, they will jump on the opportunity so quick it'll make your head spin.
