President Trump has floated a delay in US elections. 

First off, that would defy a constitutional rule dating back to the 19th century that mandates elections on the first Tuesday of November. 

To change that, both house of the US Congress have to approve by a constitutional majority. 

The whole thing about a constitution is that it is resistant to political influence so it is inherently hard to change. 

But that he considered it and has since defended his view, has riled not just his normal opponents but his own party. 

It just adds significant political risk to that party at a time in which they are already facing a dismal electoral future. 

But Trump has his reasons for doing it. They are selfish and ignore the plight of the GOP, but he justifies it anyway. 

He is teeing up a narrative that he will use to at least save face or at worst reject the election if he is outvoted in November. 

The pretext is postal voting, which has gained popularity in many states due to the risks of physical voting around Covid-19.

Trump is fearful that that will swell voter participation, which would tilt the odds against him. 

Well, while I remain cautious, it does look like he is headed for defeat as he trails Biden by 15 points and is at 40% support. 

(c) Peter Missing @