Steph Solis

USA TODAY

The New York Post endorsed Donald Trump for president Thursday night, banking on the prospect that he will become more presidential if he wins the Republican nomination.

The tabloid's endorsement comes days before the New York primary on April 19 and follows an endorsement made by the New York Observer.

The Post described the Republican front-runner as a true New Yorker, a common-sense businessman who is inexperienced in politics yet inspiring. A "rookie candidate" with his fair share of missteps, but also a potential that outweighs those campaign blunders.

That potential will become more apparent, the paper predicted, if the GOP gives him a chance.

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"Should he win the nomination, we expect Trump to pivot — not just on the issues, but in his manner," The Post says. "The post-pivot Trump needs to be more presidential: better informed on policy, more self-disciplined and less thin-skinned."

"Yet the promise is clearly there in the rookie who is, after all, leading the field as the finals near."

The Post did mention a number of "rookie mistakes" that may have complicated Trump's bid for the White House, including his support of nuclear proliferation, his answer to illegal immigration and his "political incorrectness." But Trump can smooth over the rough patches by forming more complex solutions to issues such as American interventionism, illegal immigration and trade, the endorsement suggested. And for those put off by Trump's demeanor, Trump might take a different approach come general election time.

Most of all, however, the editorial board expects Trump to deliver on his promise to "make America great again" without the government's red tape.

"Trump is now an imperfect messenger carrying a vital message. But he reflects the best of 'New York values' — and offers the best hope for all Americans who rightly feel betrayed by the political class."