His poll numbers may indeed rise...for those who might not expect substance, which tonight Trump could have shown better then he did.
Trumps been attacked in the past....he could have prepared for that and upped his game in how he responded..this was not on the street, it was a debate....I can give him somewhat of a pass believing he hasn’t done debates before...but if he continues as tonight...then he’s not looking to be “President”.
I give Trump credit for raising his hand. He could have lied and pledged his fealty to any of the GOP candidates. He could then break the pledge any time he wanted just like any politician that breaks their promises and pledges.
Trump has said that it depends on the nominee and also on how the RNC treats him. As long as it is fair, no third party. It is his Trump card. It is also a clever negotiating ploy.
The GOPe and the pundits have ridiculed Trump's seriousness about running. Initially, they called it a stunt and that he wouldn't run. Then they said he wouldn't file the financial information required. Then they predicted his demise over illegal aliens and his remarks about McCain. No doubt his demise is at hand again with his failure to move away from keeping his options open as far as running as a Third Party candidate. Each time these dire predictions are made, Trump's poll numbers rise.
It will be interesting to see the new polls when they come out.