Donald Trump’s early 2025 surge of executive action gave his administration momentum, but by year-end legal battles, public backlash and falling poll numbers have weakened his standing. Hardline immigration measures, broad tariffs, institutional attacks and a heavy foreign-policy focus provoked protests and Democratic electoral gains. With multiple Republican retirements and key voter groups drifting away, analysts say Democrats are well positioned to make significant midterm gains in 2026.
Dragged Down by an Unpopular President, Republicans Brace for a Midterm Rout
The prevailing image of the Trump presidency is of a driver asleep at the wheel.Photograph: Patrick Smith/Getty Images
What began as a dramatic comeback for Donald Trump in January 2025 has, by year-end, turned into a political liability for his party. After an energetic start — a flood of executive actions, high-profile personnel changes and sweeping policy shifts — the president’s approval ratings have slipped, legal challenges have mounted, and many Republicans are preparing for difficult congressional elections in November 2026.
Early Momentum and Rapid Change
Emboldened by victory in 2024, the administration moved quickly to reshape the federal government and policy priorities. On his first day in office the president issued pardons for many people connected to the January 6 attack on the US Capitol and launched an aggressive agenda that expanded executive authority and targeted perceived political enemies. Within 11 months the White House had signed hundreds of executive actions — many of which have faced court challenges.
Domestic Policies and Public Backlash
The administration pursued a hardline immigration program that included large-scale deportations and the deployment of federal forces to American cities. Officials invoked the 1798 Alien Enemies Act in actions that drew sharp criticism and local pushback. Economically, the president’s signature legislative effort — rebranded as the Working Families Tax Cut Act — has been criticized by opponents as favoring wealthier Americans and reducing healthcare coverage for millions. Simultaneously, a broad tariff policy disrupted supply chains and contributed to higher consumer prices.
Institutional Strains and Legal Challenges
Observers and legal advocates say the administration’s approach has strained democratic norms and institutions. Independent watchdogs and critics point to the dismissal of inspectors general, efforts to replace career civil servants with political appointees, freezes on federal funding for some universities, and an aggressive campaign against certain media outlets. Legal groups have filed hundreds of lawsuits — many challenging executive actions that federal judges have at times blocked or curtailed.
Foreign Policy Focus and Controversies
Foreign affairs consumed a significant portion of presidential attention in the year. The administration brokered a high-profile ceasefire and hostage-release deal in the Middle East, pursued unconventional diplomatic overtures — including a widely criticized reception for Russia’s leader — and faced scrutiny over business and ethical concerns tied to foreign gifts and ventures.
Public Reaction and Political Consequences
Civic resistance and electoral setbacks signalled a shift in momentum. Massive demonstrations — organizers said the June and October "No Kings" protests drew millions of participants — and Democratic victories in key gubernatorial and local races refocused political debate around affordability, health care and everyday economic concerns. Polling showed approval ratings well underwater on major issues, and analysts report voter groups that swung to the president in 2024 are drifting away.
Outlook for the 2026 Midterms
Historically, the president’s party loses ground in midterm elections, and the current environment has prompted several high-profile Republican retirements in both chambers of Congress. Political analysts increasingly rate Democrats as strong contenders to reclaim the House in 2026, arguing that accountability for economic and domestic outcomes now rests with the incumbent administration.
“This administration has been governing in a way that is on a collision course with the Constitution,”
— Skye Perryman, president and CEO, Democracy Forward (summary of her public remarks and litigation activity).
