Local Republican leaders divided in supporting Trump

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The division continues among the Republican Party and its support of Donald trump. On Monday, Paul Ryan said he will not pull his endorsement of Trump but he also will not defend him any longer.

Closer to home, Congressman David Valadao issued a scathing statement about Trump while Devin Nunes said he is still backing the presidential nominee.

While American voters tuned into the latest debate, many took to Twitter Sunday night and the South Valley Congressman is among those stepping away from Trump.

He issued a statement saying in part: "I have repeatedly stated I cannot support Donald Trump and this type of disgusting behavior is exactly why as a father to a young girl and two sons, teaching my children to treat women with respect is something I take very seriously."

Fresno State political science professor Thomas Holyoke said Valadao's statement may have a lot to do with his desire to keep his unsafe congressional seat.

"Congressman Valadao is really in a Democratic district," he explained. "He's a Republican in a Democratic district. It's also a district that tilts heavily Latino."

Some local Republicans, including a delegate from the South Valley aren't very surprised by Paul Ryan's comments Monday about changing his focus this election, especially since he's never been a diehard fan.

"I think what's happening, and it's happened so quickly, it's almost like a flash mob or something," delegate Tom Fife said. "But the people who didn't like Donald Trump going into this haven't changed their mind and every time they have an opportunity to throw a rock at Donald Trump, they do that."

Nunes is still backing Trump but unlike Valadao, he has a much stronger base and has a seat that many say is more safe to proclaim support for what's become a divided decision.