Donald Trump Distances Himself From GOP Midterm Struggles

President Donald Trump distanced himself from voter dissatisfaction with the Republican Party ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. In an interview with Punchbowl News, Trump asserted that while voters are angry with the GOP, they are not angry with him personally. This statement follows CNN polling indicating Republicans trail Democrats by 8 points on the generic congressional ballot, with critics citing a failure to address cost-of-living issues.

Trump defended his limited campaign activity by stating he is not on the ballot. However, he committed to using the $400 million war chest of his super PAC, MAGA Inc., to support Republican candidates.

The president also signaled a rift with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, declining to support Thune for another term as leader. This tension follows Thune's refusal to eliminate the filibuster to pass the SAVE America Act, a federal elections overhaul bill. In contrast, Trump praised House Speaker Mike Johnson as a "fantastic person."