‘It never mattered less’: Super Tuesday is looking less than super this year

With the presidential nominees all but assured, the celebrated ritual lacks suspense – but election could be ‘the worst in modern history’

Microphone in hand, Nikki Haley was delivering a well-rehearsed stump speech when a primal cry came from the audience. “He cannot win a general election!” yelled a man, referring to Donald Trump and the ex-president’s chance against Joe Biden. “It is madness!”

Haley supporters at a campaign rally in a tiny Washington hotel on Friday signaled their agreement. But they are in a distinct minority within the Republican party as the biggest day of this year’s primary election campaign approaches.