Trump Can Still Salvage the Midterms by Refocusing on Core Campaign Promises
Source: Eddie Scarry. "There's Time For Trump To Turn Things Around Before Midterms." March 9, 2026. thefederalist.com
The Gist
The author argues Trump is disappointing his base by getting distracted with foreign wars and establishment politics instead of focusing on the domestic issues voters care about. But there's still time before the midterms to get back on track by pressuring Congress to pass key bills and focusing on economic policies that actually bring down prices.
Conclusion
Trump still has time to turn things around before the midterms by refocusing his administration on core domestic priorities rather than foreign policy distractions
Premises
- Trump's recent actions contradict his campaign promises, including starting a Middle East war, attending the White House Correspondents' dinner, and backing establishment Republicans like Cornyn
- Voters elected Trump specifically for domestic priorities: de-escalating international conflict, immigration enforcement, and bringing down prices
- There are still eight months until the midterms, which provides sufficient time for course correction
- Trump achieved significant wins in 2025 and early 2026 on immigration, crime reduction, and eliminating DEI programs, proving he can deliver on promises
- Republicans in Congress can be pressured to pass key legislation like the SAVE Act through Trump's endorsement leverage
- Trump's core strength as a businessman should focus on economic initiatives like housing development, energy production, and taxpayer savings rather than 'free money giveaways'
Assumptions
- Midterm election outcomes are primarily determined by presidential performance in the months leading up to the election
- Voters prioritize domestic issues over foreign policy achievements
- Trump has sufficient political capital and influence to force Congressional Republicans to act
- The current trajectory will lead to poor midterm results for Republicans
- Economic improvements require supply-side solutions rather than monetary stimulus