The Excerpt Trump at odds with MAGA movement on multiple fronts
Jul 11, 2025
Francesca Chambers, USA Today’s White House correspondent, dives into the tumultuous relationship between Donald Trump and the MAGA movement. She discusses the friction over immigration policies and skepticism towards foreign aid to Ukraine. Chambers highlights rising tensions between Trump and Putin following a contentious phone call about the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Additionally, she touches on the Secret Service's disciplinary actions and the evolving dynamics in Trump's support among conservatives amidst ongoing tragedies and criticisms.
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Trump's Immigration Stance Causes Friction
- Trump remains popular with conservatives on immigration enforcement despite some contradictions.
- His comments on good workers who aren't citizens sparked alarm about potential amnesty in MAGA circles.
MAGA Discomfort with Foreign Policy Shift
- MAGA supporters oppose foreign wars and old alliances but see Trump's sending of weapons to Ukraine as contradictory.
- This shift alienates some MAGA voters eager for more traditional isolationism and skepticism of intervention.
Musk's Party Challenges MAGA Cohesion
- Elon Musk's launch of the American Party threatens to siphon MAGA support and disrupt GOP unity ahead of 2026.
- Despite contradictions, grassroots MAGA still largely trusts Trump to deliver on promises.