Trump Faces GOP Vulnerabilities as Approval Rating Dips to 39%

UPDATE: High-profile conservative analyst Bill Kristol warns that former President Donald Trump is creating critical “vulnerabilities” for the Republican Party due to his plummeting approval ratings. In a compelling episode of The Bulwark Podcast aired on November 17, 2023, Kristol highlighted the urgent concerns facing the GOP as Trump’s approval rating has fallen to 39%.

Kristol emphasized that Trump’s handling of economic issues and the renewed pressure to disclose Jeffrey Epstein files are significant threats that could result in severe repercussions for Republicans in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. He stated, “There’s some chunk of the Trump coalition, both the sort of normie Republicans out there who just look around what is all this with the ballroom and the gold at the White House, and he’s old and he’s falling asleep and it’s all about him.”

The analyst expressed that these factors, combined with rising concerns over tariffs and potential scandals, could lead to a disastrous election cycle if Trump’s approval continues to decline. Kristol warned that if Trump’s ratings dip to 38% or lower, the outlook for Republicans “looks bad.”

The podcast’s discussion is particularly relevant as it surfaces amid a backdrop of increasing challenges for the GOP. Kristol’s remarks reflect a growing sentiment among conservatives that Trump’s personal brand is becoming a liability rather than an asset. His approval rating has reportedly dropped eight points since taking office, raising alarms about the party’s future.

As the political landscape shifts, Kristol’s analysis serves as a wake-up call for Republicans. With the 2026 midterm elections on the horizon, party leaders are urged to reassess their strategies to mitigate the risks posed by Trump’s controversial tenure.

What’s next? The GOP must navigate these vulnerabilities carefully as they prepare for the critical elections ahead. Observers are now keenly watching how Trump’s approval ratings will evolve and what impact this will have on the Republican Party’s unity and electoral chances.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and share your thoughts on the implications of Trump’s approval ratings for the GOP.