quick to backpedal on himself. >> i mean remember, six years ago which feels like so long ago even though it was only six years ago, the very conservative republicans loved ted cruz. actually beat donald trump amongst them 42% to 36% but then jump forward to the general elections of 2016 and 2020 and the very conservative republicans -- look at this. in 2016, trump got 97% of their vote. in 2020, he got 99% of their vote. you don't have to be a mathematician to know that is pretty much nearly unanimous. donald trump is in charge of this republican party and that's what's going on with ted cruz. >> so for any would-be 2024 republican presidential contender, how important to very conservative voters is some sort perceived allegiance to the former president? that would seem critical. >> its extremely important. we asked that question essentially in our poll in september, is supporting trump an important part of being republican? look at this. 60% said very important. 22% said somewhat important. so important anyway is north of