S5 Ep10: It's Really Good and Really Bad (with Mark Leibovich)
Mar 22, 2025
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Mark Leibovich, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of insightful political books, joins the discussion on voter sentiments in the age of Trump. He explores the complex feelings first-time Trump voters have, including buyer's remorse. The conversation touches on the Democratic Party's struggles with leadership and the gap between Trump's promises and performance. Additionally, they delve into the impact of economic policies on public sentiment and end with a quirky take on Greenland's surprising geopolitical spotlight.
Voters exhibit mixed feelings about Trump, expressing both support for his actions and disappointment over unmet expectations during his first hundred days.
The Democratic response to Trump's initiatives is seen as ineffective, creating a leadership vacuum that Trump has been able to exploit effectively.
There is a noticeable divide among voters who switched from Biden to Trump, with contrasting views on the pace and impact of Trump's policy changes.
Deep dives
Voter Approval Ratings and Divided Sentiments
Donald Trump’s approval rating sits around 48%, with disapproval slightly higher at 49%, indicating a mixed reception from voters during his first hundred days. Many who previously voted for Biden are now identifying with Trump for various reasons, leading to a split among these voters. Some express disappointment, feeling they are not receiving what they had hoped for or even too much of what they expected. The conversations surrounding this reflect a general uncertainty about the effectiveness and direction of his leadership.
The Performance of Trump and the Democrats’ Position
Discussion around Trump’s first hundred days reveals sharp criticism of the Democratic response to his initiatives. Voters observe that Democrats have not effectively coalesced around a unified message or strong leadership, leaving a leadership vacuum that Trump capitalizes on. Some voters believe Trump has become more presidential and effective in his messaging compared to his first term, which influences their perception positively. This comparison suggests a significant shift in how voters view Trump's approach, despite the concerns over his chaotic style.
Public Reactions to Trump’s Joint Session Speech
Voter reactions to Trump’s speech reveal an interesting trend where they focus more on the Democratic response than the substance of his speech. Many commentators expressed frustration with Democrats for not applauding positive moments, such as honoring a young cancer survivor, which skewed public perception against them. The overall sentiment indicated that voters perceived Democrats as ineffectual and detached for their lack of engagement during these moments. This raised questions about how Democrats communicate their values while navigating their image in light of Trump's interactions.
Changing Dynamics within the Voter Base
Among those who switched from voting for Biden to Trump, a divide emerges between those who are optimistic about Trump's actions and those who feel apprehensive about the rapid pace of change. Some voters express satisfaction with the swift implementation of policies compared to previous administrations, while others feel overwhelmed and concerned about potential long-term consequences. This ambivalence is evident as they navigate the complexities of economic and social changes driven by Trump’s decisions. Their divergent views indicate a critical juncture where voter trust and expectations intersect with political actions.
Concerns Over Tariffs and Economic Implications
Voters express worries about the impact of tariffs imposed during Trump's administration, particularly on job security and consumer prices. Many recognize that these tariffs could lead to a rise in costs for everyday goods, affecting their economic stability directly. As individuals within industries such as automotive share their concerns about potential job cuts due to heightened tariffs, the wider implications of Trump's trade policies resonate. The consensus suggests that voters expect Trump, as a businessman, to alleviate financial burdens rather than exacerbate them, indicating a vulnerability in his economic strategy.
We're checking in on first-time Trump voters as Trump's reign of chaos continues. Some love what they're getting and think Democrats are out over their skis. Others are wondering when Trump will get around to fixing the economy. Atlantic staff writer and legendary DC chronicler Mark Leibovich joins Sarah to discuss what to make of it all.