Article snippet: WASHINGTON — Congressional Republicans could be nearing crucial tests of their loyalty toward President Trump and of how well they’ve mastered the art of walking a political tightrope during his turbulent presidency. Should damning evidence accumulate that Trump pressured the Ukrainian president to investigate Joe Biden, a potential 2020 presidential rival, some Republicans facing reelection next year may be forced into a painful political box. Turn on Trump and risk jeopardizing his presidency and infuriating his staunchly loyal supporters. With the most recent polls showing Trump is supported by 8 in 10 Republican voters or more, any GOP lawmaker who abandons him could well inspire a primary challenge that might be tough to survive. ‘‘If you support impeachment and they don’t, you’re signing your own death warrant,’’ said Republican consultant Glen Bolger, referring to GOP lawmakers and hardcore Trump supporters. If the evidence is incriminating enough, standing by Trump could jeopardize support from moderate voters come the November 2020 general election. While most congressional Republicans represent safely GOP areas, those from swing districts and states can ill afford to anger such constituents. ‘‘Very few things animate the base of both political parties like an impeachment discussion,’’ said Josh Holmes, a former top aide to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. An impeachment effort could help Republican candidates from GOP-leaning states, but R... Link to the full article to read more