The News Agents - USA Why are Americans abandoning Trump on the economy?
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Dec 11, 2025 
Mark Joseph Stern, a Senior writer at Slate and host of Amicus podcast, dives into the shifting political landscape affecting Trump and the economy. With 70% of voters losing faith in Trump's economic skills, the discussion turns to how affordability is shaping the upcoming midterms. Stern also explores critical Supreme Court cases that could expand presidential power, raising concerns over the politicization of agencies and the risk of compromised data integrity. The implications for democracy and future elections are significant.
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Affordability Is The Voter Faultline
- Affordability, not abstract GDP numbers, is now the central voter concern in the US.
- Many Americans skip healthcare and basic expenses, and polls show low trust in Trump's handling of the economy.
Pocketbook Effects Trump Macro Wins
- Falling prices for some items (like gasoline) mask rising costs in groceries and electricity.
- Voters judge presidents by everyday pocketbook effects, which decided Biden's 2024 weakness and now threaten Trump.
Choose Whether To Put Trump On The Ballot
- Republicans must decide whether to nationalize the midterms by centering Donald Trump or localize races away from him.
- Susie Wiles argues putting Trump on the ballot will mobilize low-propensity Trump voters.