Trump heads weakened into a season of tough political challenges - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Kevin Rector

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

President Trump entered the 2026 midterm election cycle in a vulnerable position, marked by declining political capital and historically low approval ratings. Despite his confidence in "Making America Great Again," Trump faces significant challenges, including plummeting support on immigration, economic sluggishness, and mounting international tensions. His administration's loyalty and base remain strong, but polls indicate that 60% of Americans disapprove of his job performance, with sharp declines among key demographic groups like Latinos and independents. The political landscape is further complicated by Trump's refusal to retreat from unpopular policies or acknowledge the potential for midterm losses. Instead, he appears determined to interfere in the elections, signaling a departure from how other weakened presidents have handled similar situations. This approach has left observers warning of "completely uncharted waters" as Trump doubles down on his agenda despite widespread disapproval. The stakes are high, not just for Trump but for Republicans across the country. His declining popularity, particularly among Latino and younger voters, could spell trouble for candidates on the ballot in November. With polls showing a 19-point drop in approval among Latinos and a 15-point decline among independents, Trump's influence—and that of his party—hangs in the balance. This situation matters because the outcome of the midterm elections will shape the next two years of governance and set the stage for future political battles. If Democrats make gains or retake control of Congress, it could signal a shift in the political landscape, potentially limiting Trump's influence and setting precedents for future administrations. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Trump can recover his political footing or if his weakened position continues to erode further.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/25/2026