WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump’s aggressive second-term blitz, expanding executive power, slashing bureaucracy, and igniting trade wars, has eroded his Republican stronghold amid rising costs and midterm threats. Historians note Trump’s unprecedented power grab rivals Franklin Roosevelt’s early years, fueled by loyal Cabinet picks, a conservative Supreme Court, and compliant Congress.
He’s cut federal jobs, closed agencies, deported migrants en masse, restricted vaccines, and targeted foes in media and academia. Yet, unfulfilled promises like ending the Ukraine war persist, with eight claimed victories disputed amid ongoing conflicts. Approval ratings plunged to 39% per a Reuters/Ipsos poll, as voters sour on inflation blamed on predecessor Joe Biden.
White House spokesman Kush Desai insists tackling costs remains priority one: “Much work remains.” Republican rebels emerge, polls show discontent with immigration crackdowns and power overreach, risking House control and a third impeachment in November. Trump’s December Pennsylvania speech, meandering 90 minutes dismissing affordability as a “Democratic hoax”, alarmed strategists.
A party insider admitted economic headwinds drag on, urging patience for a full term. With no ballot run, Trump plans 2026 rallies to rally base, but analysts warn distancing lawmakers could doom GOP control.