Following discussions with No 10 officials, one Tory Brexiteer told that PM appeared to understand he cannot agree a deal without DUP’s backing.

Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/brexit-protocol-deal-labour-government-sunak-b2288181.html

However, the DUP’s solid vote reflected a tactical victory for its leader,Jeffrey Donaldson, who faced down challenges on both flanks from the moderate UUP and the hardline Traditional Unionist Voice.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2023/may/21/dup-urged-to-restore-power-sharing-in-northern-ireland-after-sinn-fein-poll-triumph

Meanwhile, just 2pc of non-unionist voters believe the protocol is the only reason for the DUP’s Stormont boycott.

Source: https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/support-grows-for-sinn-fein-dup-and-alliance-as-most-unionists-back-donaldson-over-stormont-boycott/a1128198155.html

Officials hope the ‘powerful democratic safeguard’ will unblock a Brexit-related stalemate in the Northern Ireland Assembly, though the DUP’s opposition means it may not actually be used for some time.

Source: https://metro.co.uk/2023/03/24/rishis-new-brexit-deal-for-northern-ireland-is-formally-signed-off-18497270/

The DUP’s strategy in opposing the Northern Ireland Protocol has been vindicated, party leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has said.

Source: https://www.barryanddistrictnews.co.uk/news/national/23282584.opposition-northern-ireland-protocol-vindicated---dup-leader/?ref=rss

The DUP’s vote share increased more than any other party.

Source: https://sluggerotoole.com/2023/05/26/local-election-2023-analysis-part-2-the-myth-of-unionist-vote-shredding-turnout-party-performance/

They are enthusiastic for the DUP’s requests for a Green Lane that would facilitate a better flow of goods and the establishment of an UK centred East-West council.

Source: https://sluggerotoole.com/2023/11/13/the-continuance-of-lost-power-at-stormont-is-not-cost-free-for-the-dup/

Trevor Clarke, the DUP’s lead representative on the Policing Board, said it is difficult to see what credibility the chief constable has left.

Source: https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-41215798.html