UPDATE: A leading conservative analyst has raised alarms about President Donald Trump’s declining approval rating, warning that it poses serious risks for the Republican Party ahead of the crucial 2026 midterm elections. During a recent episode of The Bulwark Podcast, aired on Monday, Bill Kristol, editor-at-large for The Bulwark, articulated growing concerns over Trump’s performance, especially regarding the economy and the potential fallout from renewed scrutiny over the Jeffrey Epstein files.
Kristol pointed out that Trump’s approval rating has plummeted by 8 percentage points since he took office in January, with current estimates by The Economist showing his approval at just 39% as of November 17. “The midterm election looks bad for Republicans if Trump’s approval sinks to 38% or lower,” Kristol stated emphatically.
The analyst expressed concern that Trump’s focus on personal branding and controversies—such as lavish displays of wealth at the White House—could alienate a segment of the Republican base. “There’s a chunk of the Trump coalition that looks around and thinks, ‘He’s old, he’s falling asleep, and it’s all about him,'” Kristol warned. He emphasized that some Republicans feel Trump is not prioritizing their interests, which could lead to significant electoral challenges.
Kristol’s insights come at a critical time as Republicans prepare for the upcoming elections, with mounting pressure on Trump to address various issues that could influence public perception. The potential implications of this situation are significant, as the GOP grapples with internal divisions and the need for a cohesive strategy moving forward.
With the spotlight on Trump’s approval ratings and their impact on the Republican agenda, all eyes will be on upcoming developments. Stay tuned for further updates as this story evolves, and consider how these dynamics could reshape the political landscape in the United States leading into 2026. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, as both party leaders and voters alike are faced with the pressing question: Can Trump turn things around before it’s too late?
