The Republican National Convention no-shows
Some of the excuses are downright amusing: “I’ve got to mow my lawn.” Others suggest more is at stake – as in their political careers. The bottom line is that key figures in the Republican Party are steering clear of the convention. Click on the photos below to find out more about their reasons.
Marco Rubio: U.S. senator and former GOP presidential nominee. Reason: The senator whom Mr. Trump called “Little Marco” says he has less free time now that he has decided to seek re-election in Florida.EMILY MICHOT
Jeff Flake: U.S. senator. Reason: “I’ve got to mow my lawn.”ROSS D. FRANKLIN
John McCain: U.S. senator and 2008 GOP presidential nominee. Reason: Mr. Trump described him as not being a true military hero because he was captured during the Vietnam War. Mr. McCain said he is up for re-election in November is busy campaigning.RONEN ZVULUN
John Kasich: Ohio governor and former GOP presidential candidate. Reason: He has not endorsed Mr. Trump or indicated that he will vote for him in November.JOHN MINCHILLO
Mitt Romney: 2012 GOP presidential nominee. Reason: After calling Mr. Trump a “phony” and a “fraud” in March, it is hard to imagine Mr. Romney showing up in Cleveland.JIM URQUHART
George H.W. Bush: 41st U.S. president. Reason: “At age 91, President Bush is retired from politics. He naturally did a few things to help Jeb, but those were the ‘exceptions that proved the rule,’” said a spokesman.KEVIN LAMARQUE
George W. Bush: 43rd U.S. president. Reason: A statement from his office said he would not be commenting or participating in the presidential campaign – and that includes not attending the convention.JONATHAN ERNST
Jeb Bush: former Republican presidential candidate and Trump rival. Reason: The former Florida governor is still sore after spending $130-million (U.S.) and failing to stop Mr. Trump. He said he won’t vote for either presidential candidate in November.CHRIS KEANE
Ben Sasse: U.S. senator. Reason: "Sen. Sasse will not be attending the convention and will instead take his kids to watch some dumpster fires across the state, all of which enjoy more popularity than the current front-runners,” said a spokesman.Facebook