In brief
Amid a backdrop of dissatisfaction with his economic policies and declining approval ratings, President Trump is poised to give a significant speech outlining his future agenda. As public sentiment wanes—particularly regarding inflation, immigration, and job losses—this address will focus on his administration's achievements and plans for the remainder of his second term, as he gears up for upcoming midterm elections that could shift congressional control. With his team citing Democrats as primary fault for current challenges, Trump aims to bolster his narrative ahead of a referendum on his leadership.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump intends to preview his agenda for next year and beyond in a live speech from the White House, remarks that come at a crucial juncture as he tries to rebuild his steadily eroding popularity. The White House offered few details about what the Republican president intends to emphasize in the speech at 9 p.m. ET. Public polling shows that most U.S. adults are frustrated with his handling of the economy as inflation picked up after his tariffs raised prices and hiring slowed.The president’s mass deportations of immigrants have also proven unpopular, despite being viewed favorably for halting crossings along the U.S. border with Mexico. Generally, the public has responded negatively to his income tax cuts and efforts to secure foreign investment into the U.S. In 2026, Trump and his party will face a referendum on their leadership as the nation heads into midterm elections crucial for control of Congress. Trump's narrative suggests that he believes more Americans would back him if they simply heard him describe his track record, which includes promises to reverse recent declines in manufacturing jobs and dramatically increase tax refunds next year.Following a speech in Pennsylvania last week, Trump indicated awareness of societal shifts influenced by economic realities and suggested that his tariff policies might mean American children should have fewer dolls and pencils. Additionally, Trump’s social media presence and impromptu press conferences have kept him in the public eye, contrasting with formal addresses intended to detail serious policy matters. As the administration gears up for the midterm elections, Trump's planned remarks aim to re-establish his appeal in the face of mounting challenges tied to his leadership and economic decisions.
