WASHINGTON — The math and momentum point to a Republican presidential nomination for Donald Trump after high-stakes primaries in five states, as GOP officials grapple with whether to embrace the billionaire businessman or rally behind a longshot alternative.
Democrat Hillary Clinton strengthened her position against Bernie Sanders with primary victories in Florida, Illinois, Ohio and North Carolina on Tuesday, putting her in a commanding position to become the first woman in U.S. history to win a major-party nomination.
Trump strengthened his hand with wins in Florida, North Carolina and Illinois but fell in Ohio to that state’s governor, John Kasich. Votes were also being counted Tuesday in Missouri, though races in both parties were too close to call.
Florida Sen. Marco Rubio ended his once-promising campaign after a devastating home-state loss.
