President Donald Trump is set to appear on NBC’s “Meet the Press” this Sunday after a week that saw his approval ratings sink to a new low and Republican lawmakers openly break with him on key issues. The interview comes as midterm elections approach, with the president under mounting pressure on the economy, the Iran war, and rising gas prices that have eroded public support.
GOP Defections on Capitol Hill
Divisions within the Republican Party burst into public view during a series of Senate votes this week. Several GOP senators crossed party lines to support Democratic-backed amendments blocking two of Trump’s most controversial proposals: a now-abandoned $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund and plans for a 90,000-square-foot White House ballroom. The fund, which would have provided payouts to allies who claimed Justice Department targeting, was scrapped after bipartisan backlash.
In the House, six Republicans joined Democrats to approve military aid for Ukraine, directly challenging Trump’s withdrawal of U.S. support for Kyiv amid its war with Russia. A separate war powers resolution to force an end to the Iran war also passed the House, underscoring a growing willingness among lawmakers to buck the president on core issues as the midterm cycle heats up.
Iran, Intelligence, and Attorney General Picks
The administration continues negotiations with Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and reform Iran’s nuclear program, even as the U.S. military confirmed shooting down Iranian missiles and drones aimed at Gulf allies. Trump is likely to face questions about his choice of Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence—a pick that surprised Senate Republicans concerned about Pulte’s national security experience during a wartime period. Pulte, who has previously accused Trump’s political adversaries of mortgage fraud, faced bipartisan criticism over fears he could weaponize the intelligence office. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) warned that any formal nomination would face a “lengthy road ahead” for confirmation.
Trump’s presumptive attorney general nominee, acting AG Todd Blanche, also faces headwinds. GOP senators have scrutinized Blanche over his role in the anti-weaponization fund, which was ultimately scrapped after coming from a $10 billion IRS settlement over the leak of Trump’s tax returns.
For more on GOP tensions, see how budget fights have exposed rifts within the party, and read about the packed summer agenda facing Republicans.
Maine Senate Race Heats Up
Election watchers are closely watching the contentious Senate race in Maine, where Democratic nominee Graham Platner faces a sexting scandal and allegations of past behavior toward women—claims he has repeatedly denied. Despite the turmoil, Platner maintains he can unseat incumbent Sen. Susan Collins (R).
Trump’s economic record, including a strong May jobs report, remains a central campaign theme. But voters still feel squeezed, and the president’s net approval has dropped to its lowest point ever. For more on the economy, see how the jobs beat contrasts with lingering voter anxiety.
Sunday Show Lineup
Trump’s “Meet the Press” appearance headlines a busy Sunday show schedule. Other guests include House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on Fox News, Sens. Mark Warner (D-Va.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) on various networks, and a host of lawmakers and analysts across ABC, CBS, CNN, and MSNBC.
