Trump foreign policy hits voters in the pocketbook, imperiling Republicans in midterms
SPY•Trump’s Iran war and tariffs have made foreign policy a cost-of-living issue, threatening Republican control of Congress in the November 3 midterms. A poll found 78% of Americans blame his policies for rising prices that are outpacing their earnings.
1. Foreign policy and costs
Trump’s war against Iran and sweeping tariff campaign are pushing up costs for Americans, making his foreign policy a pocketbook issue ahead of the November 3 midterms. A poll earlier this month found that 78% of Americans blame his policies for rising prices that are outpacing their earnings.
2. Political consequences
Democrats are widely projected to gain control of the House, while the Senate is increasingly in play. Some Republican candidates have distanced themselves from Trump over the Middle East conflict, the trade war with Canada and his pressure campaign against Ukraine. Losing either chamber could complicate his agenda during the last two years of his term.
3. Room to act abroad
Even if control of Congress shifts, lawmakers may have difficulty constraining Trump’s ability to pursue foreign policy. Analysts say he could feel restricted or emboldened after the election, or lose interest in international affairs.
