Despite the fact that Donald Trump lost his re-election and was only allowed to serve a term as president, two-thirds of Republicans want him to continue in politics.

According to the American public opinion institute Pew Research Center, 44 percent also want him to stand in the 2024 election.

In the year that has passed since Donald Trump left the presidency, his power within the Republicans has not diminished but rather strengthened.

Be on site at the Capitolium

Mark Finchem of Arizona and Mark Middleton of Texas were both present at the Capitol when Trump urged his supporters to "stop the theft" of the election.

Now, a year later, they hope to be elected in their home states.

They also hope to receive Donald Trump's blessing.

- I would absolutely welcome it.

It weighs heavily in Texas, many conservatives trust his views.

He plays a very central role so I think it is very important to get his support, says Mark Middleton who is running in the primary in Texas.

He has entered politics because he thinks the United States has become too liberal.

This also applies to certain parts of the Republican Party that he hopes will pursue a policy more similar to Trump's in the future.

- The Republican Party does not do what they are supposed to and they oppose us who are conservatives.

Trump had a US first agenda that is accused of being racist and it certainly is not.

Every country needs to put itself first.

"As a politician, he has done his part"

Mark Finchem, who is running for secretary of state in Arizona, also says that it is important to be approved by Trump.

- I think it is very important.

I think he showed leadership qualities that few have and just stood there and received pure insults.

It's rare in politics.

However, Mark Middleton is hesitant to get Donald Trump back as president, he says.

- I like what he stood for, but I think his time as a politician is over and that it is time for other stable Republicans and conservatives to take a seat.

Click on the clip to hear more from Mark Middleton and Mark Finchem and see more about the Republican Party's path choice and Donald Trump's future in the Foreign Office: The Godfather at 22.00 on SVT2 or from 19.30 on SVT Play.