Feeling betrayed, Trump wants a second administration stocked with loyalists

Donald Trump's success in a second term will hinge on bringing in people committed to his agenda, top appointees say.

Trump 's fixation on fealty appears to be growing as he contemplates a second stint in the Oval Office .

Some people who have spent time close to the former president say they believe it will be the singular criterion for potential appointees.

Trump 's campaign team has tried to put a lid on a constellation of outside groups that are dreaming up wish lists of appointees and an agenda for a prospective next term.

The demand of loyalty has settled like a fog over the Republican Party , seeping into its crevices and stifling, an outcome that gives credence to Trump ’s fiercest critics.

History shows that even a promise of excommunication from Trump can run its course.

Those who have climbed back in from the cold include Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson .

“Loyalty is important to him, but I don’t know that it’s as much of a litmus test as that.”.