CNN 5 Things One Thing: Trump Claims He's Winning. Are Americans Buying It?
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Dec 21, 2025 Aaron Blake, a CNN Senior Reporter and political analyst, discusses the shifting dynamics of Trump's support. He reveals how Trump's policies are starting to alienate various voter groups, including Latinos and working-class whites. The conversation covers Trump's flat approval ratings and the economic concerns plaguing Americans. Blake also highlights Republican pushback and public fatigue with Trump's constant controversies, pondering what 2026 might look like for the GOP amidst potential changes to Trump's strategies.
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Voices Of People Directly Affected
- Aaron Blake interviewed everyday people affected by Trump-era policies: a National Parks employee, a transgender veteran, and an undocumented immigrant.
- Their stories illustrated real, personal consequences from mass layoffs, military separations, and deportation fears.
Pivot Point After Rapid, Drastic Moves
- Trump governed his second term believing he had a massive mandate and tried many drastic actions quickly.
- Those rapid, norm-busting moves have eroded his popularity and created a pivot point for his administration.
Immigration Overreach Hurts Popularity
- Immigration policies went further than many Americans could accept despite reducing border encounters.
- That overreach helps explain why Trump’s overall approval and immigration favorability remain underwater.