Even Trump voters are mad | Today, Explained

Quick Overview

The political backlash against Donald Trump is growing, evidenced by his historically low approval ratings and the fact that even some of his core supporters, like those in focus groups, are expressing discontent over issues such as the economy and the handling of the ICE-related killings in Minnesota, suggesting a potential political vulnerability heading into the midterms.

Key Points: Donald Trump's approval rating has fallen to some of the lowest levels in recorded history. The recent killings of anti-ICE protesters in Minnesota have caused a backlash, even among some Republicans, as voters question Trump's handling of the files related to the incident. Focus group data shows that voters are primarily concerned with economic issues like inflation and affordability, which they blame on the current administration but also see as a failure of Trump's promises from his first term. Republican strategist Sarah Longwell notes that voters are not forgiving Trump for past issues, such as failing to secure the border or deporting dangerous criminals, indicating that his base's loyalty is conditional. There is a structural advantage for Democrats in the upcoming elections because they are often more attuned to mainstream media narratives and can focus on issues like the economy, where they perceive Trump's promises have failed. Longwell rates Trump's second term a '10' on a 1-10 scale for things he did right, but notes that his focus on foreign policy and lack of a clear domestic agenda are liabilities. The political landscape suggests that the backlash against Trump is driven by genuine concerns over the economy and immigration enforcement, rather than just partisan alignment.

Context: Vox's "Today Explained Saturday" episode hosted by Astead Herndon features an interview with Sarah Longwell, founder and publisher of The Bulwark, a conservative publication known for its critical stance toward Donald Trump. The discussion centers on analyzing the current political climate surrounding Trump, particularly his low approval numbers, voter sentiment regarding economic issues, and the impact of recent events like the killings of anti-ICE protesters in Minnesota on his support base ahead of midterm elections.