Getty NRSC congratulates Trump on Iowa finish

Not a single Republican senator has endorsed Donald Trump, but the Senate GOP's campaign arm praised the business mogul's second place finish in Iowa anyway.



On Thursday, the National Republican Senatorial Committee congratulated Trump for his campaign in Iowa, despite the fact that many senators privately worry Trump's down ballot effect could jeopardize their majority if he wins the nomination. Most senators remain neutral in the race, but the bulk of affiliated senators have endorsed either Sen. Marco Rubio or Jeb Bush.



"It’s been a hard-fought caucus with so many Republican presidential contenders running. The results were close! Donald Trump should be commended on finishing in the top two," read an email sent to potential NRSC donors, linking to a congratulatory digital card for Trump.





"It’s a big day! The votes are in and Donald Trump has been named the 2nd place winner of the Iowa caucus. If you support Donald Trump, sign the card below and congratulate him on his finish!" read the card.



To be sure, the NRSC congratulated Sens. Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio for their Iowa performances as well, but they are senators and have received regular presidential praise from the campaign committee.



The organization has also prepared strategic memos about how to run with all of them, including Trump, while trying not to alienate supporters of any one candidate as it prepares to defend the 54-seat majority with a tough map this fall tilted toward Democrats.


And they’ve polled on Trump and invoked him in other emails.

"It’s sad that you can’t even say congratulations in Washington anymore without being criticized,” a spokeswoman said.