The Powers That Be: Daily Trump’s Midterm Shadow
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Dec 30, 2025 Leigh Ann Caldwell, a national political reporter and expert on Republican politics, joins to dissect the challenges facing the GOP ahead of the midterms. She highlights Trump's dwindling support and the party's struggle with economic messaging. Discussing the unpopular One Big Beautiful Bill, she explains how it hampers campaign strategies. Caldwell also examines Trump's disengagement from Congress and the impact on legislative agendas. The conversation delves into the tricky balance Republicans must strike between aligning with Trump and addressing voter concerns.
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Economic Numbers Undercut GOP Claims
- Donald Trump's approval is weak on economic measures and consumer confidence is falling.
- Those indicators undercut Republicans' claims that their policy record has fixed voters' economic worries.
No Forward-Looking GOP Message
- Republicans lack a forward-looking, visionary message to run on in 2026.
- Relying on past accomplishments like the One Big Beautiful Bill is a weak electoral strategy when voters feel economic pain.
Hudson's 'Cool Name' Campaign Moment
- Richard Hudson told Leigh Ann he would create a 'cool' campaign plan name for 2026.
- His reaction suggested Republicans are still searching for a persuasive post‑bill narrative.