Trump Advisers Plan Midterm Strategy as a Choice, Not a Referendum

President Donald Trump's political advisers are planning a midterm election strategy that frames the election as a choice between Republican and Democratic platforms, rather than a referendum on Trump's presidency. This approach is based on internal polling showing Republicans maintain a trust advantage on some key issues, despite declining approval ratings for the president.

The strategy was discussed at a private meeting in Washington, D.C., attended by advisers including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and James Blair, who is leaving the White House to lead Trump's political operation.

Strategy and Messaging

Advisers plan to highlight Republican policy accomplishments and portray Democrats as obstructionists without a significant agenda. A stated goal is to warn voters that Democratic control of Congress could lead to legislative gridlock.

The strategy acknowledges Trump has lost ground with voters over the past year and that more effort is needed to criticize Democrats.

Advisers identified areas where they believe Democrats are vulnerable, including opposition to GOP tax policies, border security, and crime. A challenge noted is linking individual Democratic candidates to unpopular aspects of the national party's brand, especially given the lack of a single clear Democratic leader.

Context and Challenges

Republicans are working to maintain congressional majorities amid several challenges:

• An ongoing conflict in the Middle East and voter concerns about the cost of living.
• A redistricting referendum passed in Virginia, which analysts say could give Democrats an advantage in four congressional seats.

James Blair described the Virginia result as "very close" and predicted a voter backlash in November. He stated he expects national redistricting efforts to ultimately give Republicans a narrow advantage in gained seats.

Operational Details

Attendees at the strategy meeting were asked to sign nondisclosure agreements. Blair confirmed this policy, stating it was because "we're running an operation, not a social club."

Initial plans for frequent presidential travel to campaign were disrupted by the conflict with Iran, which has affected gas prices and the wider economy. Advisers have downplayed the war's political impact, insisting midterm races will be determined primarily by domestic concerns.

Staff changes include Blair's move to an outside political operation and the expected departure of Alex Meyer from the White House to assist those efforts.

There is speculation among GOP operatives about how Trump's super PAC, MAGA Inc., which has raised nearly $350 million, will spend its funds.

Blair declined to offer specifics but expressed confidence in a Republican spending advantage.