President Donald Trump insists a potential wipeout about to hit Republican candidatesin November’s midterms has nothing to do with voters’ dissatisfaction with him.
Trump — currently polling at 35 percent approval ratings — made this bold claim during an interview with Punchbowl’s Jake Sherman released Friday morning.
“They’re angry at Republicans,” Trump said, “but they’re not angry at me.“
Trump argued that his hands were tied when it came to helping GOP candidates because he isn’t running himself.
“If I am not running, will those people go out and vote?” Trump asked. “Because a lot of them are very angry at Republicans, to be honest with you.”
The dynamic reflects a decade-long challenge for Republicans: how to motivate MAGA voters in cycles when Trump is not on the ballot, yet they are held responsible for his unpopular policies when it comes to moderate Republican voters.
The president also complained about his caucus — arguing they are too nice.
“I think the Republicans are too nice,” Trump said. “Actually, I think the Republicans are much nicer. I think the Republicans are much more gentle than the Democrats.”