The Rachel Maddow Show Maddow: Three ways Trump is trying to rig the 2026 midterm elections
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Aug 19, 2025 Michael McFaul, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, brings his expertise to a compelling discussion about Donald Trump's controversial maneuvers ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. They dissect the alarming impact of gerrymandering in Texas and the uneasy consequences of Trump's diplomatic interactions with Putin. With protests erupting and diminishing approval ratings for Trump, the conversation highlights urgent calls for public unity and vigilance against authoritarian tactics in the political landscape.
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Daily Protests Against D.C. Military Presence
- Washington, D.C. protesters have marched daily since Trump announced a military takeover of the city.
- Demonstrations included banners like "Free D.C." and crowds confronting National Guard checkpoints.
Public Trust In Trump Plummets
- Multiple Pew poll items show Americans deeply distrust Trump's foreign policy competence and honesty.
- Disapproval is broad and intensifying, with strongly disapproving far outnumbering strong approvers.
Authoritarian Playbook Threatens Voting
- Trump's consolidation of power uses force, alliances with dictators, and court defiance to reshape governance.
- Losing the ability to replace leaders by vote would render public opinion meaningless.
