White House Defends Trump as Approval
Approval Slide and Rising Scrutiny
The White House spent the week responding to fallout as President Trump’s
approval rating dropped about four points, according to polling averages.
Critics across the spectrum point to immigration tactics, disputes over
the Epstein files, and the president’s rhetoric on elections and
executive power as drivers of unease.
As one strategist said, “This isn’t about one gaffe or
one briefing. It’s about pattern and tone.”
A Confrontational Briefing
Tensions peaked during a press briefing when Karoline Leavitt
forcefully rejected questions about an ICE killing,
accusing a reporter of bias.
Supporters applauded the pushback,
while critics argued confrontation was replacing explanation and undermining press norms.
Immigration and Economic Claims
Immigration raids described by JB Pritzker as “paramilitary”
fueled civil-liberty concerns.
Leavitt also claimed the administration had
“defeated” inflation, citing dramatic drug-price drops that economists called implausible.
Democracy and Foreign Policy Concerns
Remarks about elections being unnecessary were
dismissed as jokes, but worries persisted.
Abroad, Leavitt said Greenland remained in play,
with “all options remain on the table,” unsettling allies.
