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Trump and Democrats make the election about Trump
President Donald Trump has been a fixture on the campaign trail in the final weeks before the midterm elections, with one ask of his loyal supporters becoming a standard part of his stump speech: “Pretend I’m on the ballot.” That’s exactly what Democrats are telling their voters too: Target Republicans who actually are on the […]
The Blue Wave Could Reshape Politics in the South
Democrats could flip more than 400 legislative seats nationally and the governorships in Texas and Georgia.
Trump says Fort Hood shooter execution won't be livestreamed after bipartisan backlash
The announcement earlier this month from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that Hasan's execution would be public prompted significant blowback from both Republicans and Democrats, with many pointing out that the images could be used to fuel radicalization.
Talarico says he doesn’t support abolishing ICE but criticizes their work under Trump as “secret police”
The comment is a break with a faction of Democrats, including ones in Texas, who have called for overhauling or abolishing ICE. As recently as February, Talarico had said he wanted to “tear down this secret police force.”
Why the GOP’s voter fraud messaging may backfire
GOP allegations that voter fraud is rampant in the US may drive more Democrats – and fewer Republicans – to the polls in November.
Is the EU research budget actually increasing?
Is a Horizon Europe budget of €158 billion a 10% cut or a significant increase to the EU’s support for research and innovation? What would seem like a question of fact has divided opinion in Brussels since the Irish presidency of the EU Council presented its negotiation box on October 10. The answer depends on factors such as how you adjust for inflation, whether you account for increases in overall EU wealth and if you care about absolute or proportional figures. The €158 billion budget in current prices, proposed by the Irish presidency of the EU Council, was quickly criticised by university lobbies and rejected by the high-level expert group led by former Portuguese science minister Manuel Heitor. It was also decried by the four pro-European political groups in the European Parliament. “How can Europe close its competitiveness gap while cutting the European Competitiveness Fund by 13% and Horizon Europe by nearly 10%?” asked a joint statement by the European People’s Party (EPP), Renew Europe, the Socialists and Democrats and the Greens/European Free Alliance. Together, these parties hold 63% of seats in the Parliament.In stark contrast, Irish foreign affairs minister Helen McEntee said that the proposal “significantly increases investment in competitiveness, research and innovation,” Meanwhile, a presidency press release said that, compared to the current Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the proposal would “double the volume of competitiveness related programmes.” So, who is right? That depends on how you make the calculation.Compared to the Commission figure or the previous budget?The first thing to notice is the difference in baselines. When the MEPs say the Irish presidency will cut Horizon Europe by “nearly 10%” they are using the European Commission proposal for the MFF from July 2025, which allocated €175 billion in current prices to Horizon Europe. However, when the Irish foreign affairs minister said the research and competitiveness budget is increasing significantly, she is comparing it to the 2021-27 MFF, which had a Horizon Europe budget of €84.9 billion in 2018 prices.Her point holds when accounting for inflation. Applying a 2% annual inflation rate, the calculation method used by the Commission, the 2021-27 Horizon Europe would have a budget of €97.5 billion in 2025 prices. In comparison, the Irish presidency’s €158 billion figure in current prices translates to €140 billion in 2025 prices. Does the ECF count?But there is more to the dispute. In its statements, the Irish presidency lumped the research budget in with the overall budget for competitiveness. The Parliament statement, however, kept the two separate. This matters because the next MFF includes plans to add a new European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) to fund programmes meant to boost the continent's competitiveness. The Irish negotiating box allocated €245 billion in current prices to this programme.When this is added to the €158 billion for Horizon Europe, as well as programmes such as the EU education programme Erasmus+, the total for “competitiveness, prosperity and security” in the Irish proposal becomes €514 billion in current prices. But it is still uncertain how big a share of this competitiveness budget would go to research. The Commission proposal of July 2025 for the MFF included clear links between the ECF and Horizon Europe, indicating some ECF money will go to research. At the same time, the structure of the ECF is still being negotiated, and a substantial part of its budget is expected to support non-research activities such as defence manufacturing, decarbonisation and digital infrastructure. Related articlesCouncil floats 9.6% budget cut to next Horizon EuropeResearch community to appeal to national governments over planned EU budget cutEU own resources ‘essential’ for future research budget, says leading MEPSo, it is by looking at competitiveness rather than research, or combining the two, that the Irish presidency can claim that its proposed budget will significantly increase investment in competitiveness, research and innovation.According to the Irish presidency proposal, Horizon Europe and other competitiveness-related programmes in the current multiannual budget received €221 billion in current prices. However, since this money is being distributed from 2021 to 2027, it is not directly comparable to the €514 billion in current prices which will be distributed from 2028 to 2034.Research as a proportion of the MFFBut the relative rise in competitiveness-related programmes points to another important distinction: whether you look at the research budget in absolute terms or as a share of the overall MFF. Here, too, the size of the research budget has risen, although only slightly. In the 2021-27 MFF, Horizon Europe accounted for 7% of the total budget. In the Irish presidency’s proposal, it amounts to 8.7%. The share for the total competitiveness envelope went from 17.7% in the current MFF to 28.1% in the Irish presidency proposal.This proportional share may seem irrelevant to universities looking for research funding, but it is becoming significant as budget negotiations between the Parliament, the Commission and the Council begin. On October 2, a group of 17 southern and eastern European countries sent out a statement calling for the EU agriculture and cohesion budgets to be protected. The Parliament’s co-rapporteur on the budget, Siegfried Mureșan of the EPP, has also said that the research envelope is likely to be cut disproportionately as the budget is slimmed down during negotiations.
Will November stop Trump’s agenda?
Even a blue wave may not accomplish what Democrats are hoping for.
Democratic group substantially increases fundraising to seize state legislatures
The States Project, an organization focused on electing Democrats to state legislatures, has raised more than $100 million this cycle.
Hasan Piker isn't worried about being a political boogeyman this midterms season
NPR's Leila Fadel asks Twitch streamer and political commentator Hasan Piker about his incendiary style and whether he's become a liability for Democrats ahead of the midterms.
Romania's nominated prime minister secures support ahead of confidence vote
BUCHAREST, Oct 15 (Reuters) - Romania's leftist Social Democrats said they will join the government of Prime Minister-designate Luca Niculescu while other parties pledged their votes, edging the
New poll shows Democrats ahead in most statewide races
A new poll released by the University of Texas/Texas Politics Project shows Democrats holding slim leads in the U.S. Senate race and most statewide races.
Democrats lead early voting in Ohio
Democrats are outperforming Republicans in early voting in Ohio, a shift from the same point in 2024 that could signal an enthusiasm gap heading into the midterms.
Political analysts on what could tip the balance in Georgia’s midterm elections
Finding common ground between Democrats and Republicans has been difficult. However, the nation’s two dominant political parties agree on one thing: the upcoming midterm elections matter for several reasons, chief among them control of Congress.
Newsom heads to New Hampshire to stump for Democrats
California Gov. Gavin Newsom's trip follows voyages to other early primary voting states that could be critical to his campaign if he officially joins the 2028 presidential contest.
Analysis | Why Democrats will probably win back the House
And what could go wrong for them.
Republicans retreat from battleground districts as lines shift in House races
The shifting money in the final weeks of midterm campaigns points to a defensive posture by Republicans and new aggression from Democrats, who aim to capitalize on President Donald Trump's weak approval ratings.
Here's what's on House Democrats' agenda if they sweep to power in midterm elections
Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats will be united on reinstating Affordable Care Act tax breaks, reversing Republican Medicaid cuts, holding votes against the Iran war and undoing President Donald Trump's tariff regime.
Are Tarrant Latino voters a swing group for 2026 midterm elections?
Latino voters have swayed between Democrats and Republicans.
One week into early voting, Ohio Democrats are outperforming Republicans
Early Ohio numbers show that Democrats are coming out to vote even more than they did in 2024 and 2022, outperforming Republicans.
Barack Obama to campaign with Ohio Democrats as he expands his outreach ahead of Election Day
Former President Barack Obama is heading to Ohio and Michigan to campaign for Democratic candidates in key Senate and governor's races.
Trump's diesel deal with Putin draws bipartisan criticism from a frustrated Congress
The deal is being criticized by both Republicans and Democrats as fueling Russia's war against Ukraine, violating existing U.S. laws and drawing the U.S. closer to Russia.
Cook Political Report shifts 4 governors’ races toward Democrats
Cook Political Report is shifting four gubernatorial races in Democrats’ favor, the nonpartisan election handicapper said Tuesday, all in states which currently have Republican governors. Amo…
Cook Political Report shifts 4 governors’ races toward Democrats
Cook Political Report is shifting four gubernatorial races in Democrats’ favor, the nonpartisan election handicapper said Tuesday, all in states which currently have Republican governors. Amo…
Cook moves three red-state governor’s races toward Democrats
Cook Political Report changed Alaska's governor race rating from toss up to lean Democrat; and Nebraska, Vermont and Oklahoma governor's races from solid Republican to likely Republican.
Sen. Dornink: Democrats misguided health care policies driving another year of higher health insurance rates as the ACA fails to deliver on its promise
Senate Republicans sounded the alarm on another round of double-digit health insurance rate increases announced by the Department of Commerce, saying state Democrats raised costs and taxes, drained the Health Care Access Fund that was supposed to hold premiums down, and opposed one of the most successful tools to lower premiums through the reinsurance program....
One area Democrats, GOP agree: California needs a larger rainy day fund
The state’s boom-and-bust economy creates budget volatility. Prop. 2 would expand the state’s reserves, lessening the need to chop costs.
Medicare for All Is the Big Policy Fight Splitting Democrats | WSJ Politics Newsletter for Oct. 13
Plus, Ken Paxton partied in Dubai with two fugitives from U.S. justice, and federal agents searched Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home
Fox News Power Rankings: As the House falls, the Senate stays in play
Democrats' generic ballot lead is wider than the 2018 blue wave, pushing the House forecast toward a potential 237-seat Democratic majority.
Republicans need evangelicals to turn out in the midterms. Faith leaders are sounding the alarm they may not
Conservative leaders are sounding the alarm that more needs to be done in the final weeks before the midterm elections to educate and mobilize white evangelicals, a critical voting bloc in the president’s coalition. Republicans fear if they stay home, that could hand victories to Democrats in key races across the country with control of Congress at stake.
Key business issues are at stake in the outcomes of Colorado legislative races
Six House races and three Senate races likely will determine whether Democrats hold a supermajority in both legislative chambers in 2027.
Was Delay Of Universal Health Plan Report Unlawful? Does It Matter?
A Republican state representative has been on a crusade alleging lawmakers allowed a major report to be delayed without statutory authority. He may have a point, but Democrats say he’s harping on a technicality.
Analysis | The bellwether races to watch in November’s midterm elections
Will Democrats’ blue wave materialize? Watch these races.
Democrats rebuke federal raid of Ilhan Omar’s home: ‘rogue abuse of power’
Top House Democrats question the ‘corrupt weaponization’ of federal government against Trump’s adversaries
Rashida Tlaib condemns 'fascist' DHS raid on Ilhan Omar's home
Other House Democrats also condemned the Trump administration's raiding the home of Minnesota U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar.
Many GOP states have imposed voting rules mirroring Trump's midterm proposals
Nearly 40 laws are taking effect for the first time in this year's midterms, mostly in Republican-controlled states. Many of them mirror changes President Donald Trump tried but failed to implement at the national level.
Name-calling politics birthed ‘Oxford County bear’ symbol
A writer tried to insult Maine farmers, and Democrats in the 19th century took the symbol for their own.
Democrats pour millions into ad buys in Ohio, Iowa U.S. Senate races
the party will spend $7 million in Ohio and $2.5 million in Iowa, two states President Donald Trump carried by double digits just two years ago.
Wake school board election may affect whether you can opt out of a trans teacher’s class
GOP candidates were more likely than those endorsed by Democrats to say families can opt out of a class taught by a transgender teacher.
Judge orders Trump to cancel $20 million in taxpayer-funded political ads ahead of the midterms
The ads praised Trump and included footage from his presidential campaign, drawing criticism from Democrats and some Republicans
Democrats distance themselves from trans rights – close midterm races may show whether that pays off
A scholar of LGBTQ+ politics looks at how Democratic campaigns in Texas and Ohio are shifting on trans issues and what that could mean for control of Congress.
The midterms could bring a blue wave. Here are the forces at play
If history is any judge, then the Democrats are positioned to make gains in the 2026 midterm elections. Experts discuss their chances.
Commentary: Democrats can become the party of business
For half a century, Republicans have worn the “party of business” label like a permanent badge — tax cuts, deregulation, tough trade talk — while Democrats have too often ceded
In Iowa's competitive races, Senate candidates lean into healthcare issues
Democrats hoping to flip statewide and congressional seats have been campaigning hard on healthcare issues, hoping to win some needed Republican and independent votes. But what impact it may have on this year's close races is unclear.
Businesses Risk Wave of Democratic Probes on Costs, Corruption
Private businesses risk an onslaught of congressional investigations if Democrats prevail in midterm elections as the opposition party prepares to concentrate sweeping oversight powers on allegations of Trump administration corruption and public anger over the cost of living.
Indiana Democrats hope Beau Bayh leads them from political wilderness
Beau Bayh professes unconcern about any weight upon him for lifting Indiana Democrats from the political woes they’ve suffered for more than a decade.
Trump could face a new threat in January: A Democratic Senate
Republicans predict that Democrats will not confirm Supreme Court and Cabinet nominees if they retake the Senate in the midterm elections.
In Maine Senate Race, Anxious Democrats Turn to Bernie Sanders for a Jolt
Three months after a jarring summer candidate switch, some Democrats in the state are worried about the enthusiasm for their nominee, Troy Jackson, who is in a close race.
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries says Democrats are "on the verge of taking back control" as he visits 2 key House battlegrounds
Election forecaster says ‘winds are blowing against Republicans’ in midterms
The election forecaster who called nearly every presidential race since 1984 says Democrats are well positioned this fall.
Early voting figures suggest Democratic gains in Ohio’s most Trump-friendly counties
After the first days of early voting in Ohio, a state that could help determine control of the Senate, there are clear signs Democrats are more enthusiastic to vote.
The ABCD of US politics: American-born Combative Desis face MAGA heat
The daughter of Indian immigrants is challenging one of New York’s most powerful Democrats. In Colorado, an Indian-American Republican is running for attorney general.
Inside California Politics: State Senate candidate Brian Goldsmith
(Inside California Politics) — California’s top-two primary system often leads to same-party general election races, often between two Democrats, and this year is no exception. This week on I…
They helped elect Gluesenkamp Perez. Now some won't vote for her
As Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez faces a tight reelection race against GOP state. Sen. John Braun, some Democrats want to punish her, while others fear losing her seat.
Will Dems expand WA’s ‘millionaires tax’? Some are talking about it
Supporters of WA's 'millionaires tax' insist it's not a Trojan horse for a broader state income tax, But some prominent Democrats have gone off script.
Abdul El-Sayed says Democrats must ‘win by massive numbers’ to fend off GOP election denial
Michigan’s Democratic Senate nominee said he’s concerned that President Donald Trump and GOP Senate candidate Mike Rogers “are not committed to the institution of our democracy.”
The Influencer Who Wants Democrats to Fight Dirty
For Jennifer Welch, moving left and calling Republicans names are the keys to victory.
Analysis | Democrats are running on a scant agenda. Do they need more?
They lack a specific plan for governing, beyond turning back Trump and holding him accountable.
How the GOP weaponized trans issues and left Democrats searching for a strategy
For the second election cycle in a row, the rights of transgender people have taken center stage politically, despite their accounting for only about 1% of the U.S. population and many voters identifying other issues as far more important.
Can the midterm campaign trail point to 2028 presidential viability for Democrats?
After Clinton and Harris's losses, cautious voters might worry that for Democratic female presidential candidates the third time may not be a charm.
Democrats can become the party of business
For half a century, Republicans have worn the “party of business” label like a permanent badge – tax cuts, deregulation, tough trade talk – while Democrats have too often ceded
The United Auto Workers tries to reassert political power in Michigan as it faces internal divisions
The United Auto Workers is working to regain political influence in closely contested Michigan. The UAW generally supports Democrats, but its members are divided over whether Democrats or Republicans better represent working-class interests. Internal divisions and past corruption scandals have er...
The United Auto Workers tries to reassert political power in Michigan as it faces internal divisions
The United Auto Workers is working to regain political influence in closely contested Michigan. The UAW generally supports Democrats, but its members are divided over whether Democrats or Republicans better
Opinion | Republicans Have the Money. Democrats Have the Momentum.
This week in politics: Which Democrats? And whose A.I. morals?
The midterm strategy driving Democrats deep into Trump country
By Leah Douglas, Joseph Ax and Tim Reid WASHINGTON, Oct 10 (Reuters) - On paper, Democrat Justin Pearson, a 31-year-old Tennessee state legislator, has little chance of winning the state's
Ruling makes Hope Florida an even bigger political issue a month before election
DeSantis’ inner circle and state Democrats are both seizing on the Hope Florida saga.
These lawmakers want to head off a potential post-election crisis
A bipartisan effort is underway in Congress to avert a constitutional crisis, where Republicans don't seat Democrats, if they win the chamber.
The midterm Senate fight spreads to a surprising new battleground
Republicans are suddenly racing to defend a seat in Kansas, where Democrats are trying to win a Senate race for the first time in nearly a century.
Valadao-Villegas Debate and the Fight for Latino Voters in the Central Valley
A Central Valley debate with control of Congress at stake, and a look at whether progressive or moderate Democrats make the stronger pitch to Latino voters.
Will NH Supreme Court scandal move voters? Democrats bet yes...
The resignation of New Hampshire’s chief justice is becoming a campaign issue, as Democrats press for action and experts question whether voters will make it a ...
Democrats’ mail ballot shift: From the Politics Desk
Plus, what we learned from last night’s debates.
Democrats believe they have a real chance at flipping four states Trump won by double digits
For weeks, top Democrats in Washington have watched with cautious restraint as Republicans dumped millions into red states like Kansas and South Carolina to defend an increasingly shaky Senate map.
TGIF: Ian Donnis’ Rhode Island politics roundup for Oct 9, 2026
Magaziner sizes up Democrats’ post-midterm priorities
Could a “blue wave” reshape Wisconsin politics?
With Election Day approaching, Wisconsin Democrats are eyeing something they have not had in nearly two decades: control of the governor’s office, state
Southwest Washington House race shifts toward Democrats
The Cook Political Report moved its rating of southwest Washington's 3rd Congressional District race from a toss-up to "lean Democratic."
Time for term limits? Dems in majority could have familiar faces in key roles
Democrats hope to bring a new agenda to the House next year if they take the majority, but they will most likely do so with many of the same faces that have steered their party's legislative work for a decade or more.
Top Democrats and allies to fight a California billionaire tax
It would impose a one-time, 5% tax on the wealth of Californians whose net worth exceeds $1 billion
Cook moves 18 more House races toward the left
Polling and the work of prognosticators like the Cook Political Report suggest Democrats are likely to take back the House in November.
Iowa's 3 top congressional races move in Democrats' favor
Cook Political Report analysts see a tougher path for Iowa Republicans in November, moving two House races to leans Democratic and another to toss-up.
‘A Latino problem’: National Democrats clash with Andy Beshear over Texas governor’s race
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear hoped being chair of the Democratic Governors Association this midterms year would raise his profile and connections ahead of his expected 2028 run for president. But it’s also created an opening to ramp up pressure on him, with frustrations spilling into the open this week as multiple Texas Democratic members of Congress and national group leaders accused him of putting his book tour and potential 2028 activity ahead of helping Democratic nominee Gina Hinojosa win the Texas governor’s race.
Three House races in Pa. — including in Bucks County — shift toward Democrats, Cook Political Report says
The contest between Democrat Bob Harvie and U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick has moved from "likely" to "lean" Republican, according to the nonpartisan election tracker.
Cook Political Report moves 18 House seats toward Democrats
The Cook Political Report, an election handicapper, shifted 18 House seats toward Democrats’ favor in key battleground districts. The changes show how unfavorable the political environment co…
Cook Political Report tilts 18 House races toward Democrats
The political environment keeps deteriorating for Republicans.
Why this election could be more complicated for Democrats than polls suggest
While Democrats are considered favorites to win back the House, Republican redistricting gains have narrowed the House battleground. The party also has a significant cash advantage.
In New York governor's race, a Republican rallies with Trump and leans into his political playbook
NEW YORK (AP) — In his campaign to become the next governor of New York, Republican Bruce Blakeman has suggested Democrats might steal the election, played up fears about immigrant criminals and posted AI-generated videos depicting the state as dangerous and unaffordable.
In New York governor's race, a Republican rallies with Trump and leans into his political playbook
In his campaign to become the next New York governor, Republican Bruce Blakeman has suggested Democrats might steal the election, played up fears about immigrant criminals and posted AI-generated videos depicting the state as dangerous and unaffordable.
In New York governor\'s race, a Republican rallies with Trump and leans into his political playbook
In his campaign to become the next New York governor, Republican Bruce Blakeman has suggested Democrats might steal the election, played up fears about immigrant criminals and posted AI-generated videos
In New York governor's race, a Republican rallies with Trump and leans into his political playbook
NEW YORK (AP) — In his campaign to become the next governor of New York, Republican Bruce Blakeman has suggested Democrats might steal the election, played up fears about immigrant criminals and poste...
In New York governor's race, a Republican rallies with Trump and leans into his political playbook
In his campaign to become the next New York governor, Republican Bruce Blakeman has suggested Democrats might steal the election, played up fears about immigrant criminals and posted AI-generated videos depicting the state as dangerous and unaffordable.
In New York Governor's Race, a Republican Rallies With Trump and Leans Into His Political Playbook
NEW YORK (AP) — In his campaign to become the next governor of New York, Republican Bruce Blakeman has suggested Democrats might steal the election, played up fears about immigrant criminals and posted AI-generated videos depicting the state as dangerous and unaffordable. And on Friday night, he'll ...
Is a ‘blue tsunami’ going to wipe out Republicans in the midterms?
Jonathan Freedland speaks to David Nir of the Downballot about why Democrats are feeling so hopeful in deep red states
Eighteen More House Race Ratings Move in Democrats’ Favor
In the final weeks of the election, Republicans have hoped that a massive ad campaign effort could dent Democratic candidates' images and shore up Republicans struggling to free themselves of the anchor of President Donald Trump.With less than four weeks to go, that heavy spending has yet to move the needle.
Fake scenes, real politics: Republican candidates have embraced AI.
From time-traveling politicians to altered Bible verses, Texas GOP ads depict scenes that never happened. Democrats steer clear.
Why Congress hasn't passed bills to save Black infants, moms
Wisconsin Democrats in the U.S. House and Senate are pushing a package of bills to improve Black infant and maternal health nationwide. It faces a steep climb.
Trump bucks and the politics of mailing checks
The checks started going out last week, nearly one million of them, and mostly to battleground states. With a return address for the U.S. Treasury and a letter enclosed signed by President Donald Trump, these one-time checks for $500 were ostensibly government rebates for Obamacare enrollees who overpaid. In the accompanying letter, however, Trump attacks his predecessor and talks about his record in office on an important issue he’s not polling well on, which makes it seem more like the most expensive political mailer in U.S. history. The average piece of direct mail costs between 30 cents and $3, according to Mail Processing Associates, a print, mail, and fulfillment company. At $500 a pop plus roughly 50 cents each to issue the paper check, the cost of Trump’s healthcare mailer sent to more than 950,000 enrollees comes in at more than $475 million. Trump’s midterm healthcare message “For years, the Biden Administration overcharged you to fund the operation of HealthCare dot gov,” Trump wrote in the letter. “That money belongs to hard-working Americans, not the Government, and now, I am returning it to you!” In the letter, Trump makes false and misleading claims about his administration’s record on healthcare costs, an issue Democrats have a 20 point advantage on over Republicans, according to a recent poll from KFF, a nonpartisan health policy think tank. Trump touts his administration’s TrumpRX program, which he claims is “delivering massive discounts.” However, new research from KFF found that of a selection of drugs available on the TrumpRX platform, just five were the lowest price, while 13 were the highest price. Trump also falsely claims in the letter that he’s fighting to lower healthcare costs. In reality, average monthly premium payment costs for enrollees rose 58% under Trump while marketplace sign-ups declined 5%, per KFF. Under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, it’s estimated 10 million more Americans will be uninsured by 2034. You get a check and you get a check and you get a check Trump’s long promised cash outs to his fans, from his days as a casino operator and gameshow host to his presidency. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the first Trump administration made the unprecedented move to put Trump’s name on checks that went out under the CARES Act (notably the $500 refund checks this time around don’t feature Trump’s name). Ever since, Trump’s been chasing that high. In his second term, Trump’s promised more stimulus that never arrived, like refund checks from DOGE cuts and tariffs, while he said at his party’s convention last month that he’d give out $5,000 checks to everyone if Republicans win in November. In reality, DOGE overstated its cost cutting and Trump’s government actually now spends more than former President Joe Biden’s, while Trump’s tariffs actually grew the trade deficit. His proposal for $5,000 checks would add about $1.2 trillion to the national debt. The problem is there’s no money to give. These $500 checks — plus $90 Medicare rebate checks also going out as well as $250 deposited this week in some Trump Accounts for kids courtesy Dell Technologies CEO Michael Dell and his wife Susan — represent the closest Trump’s going to get to making good on his promise to deliver cash fast. And the checks seem especially targeted. Though the $500 checks went out to enrollees in one of 30 states that use the federal HealthCare dot gov marketplace, a Reuters review found 71% of the payments, or $339 million, went to enrollees in 13 states that have the most competitive elections for governor and U.S. Senate. Most Americans don’t buy it Could Trump bucks sway the election? An Economist-YouGov poll found 57% of U.S. adults doubt Trump will deliver on his promise for $5,000 checks, compared to 21% who do. “I’m waiting on my DOGE check and I’m still waiting on my tariff check,” one 2024 Trump voter who’s since turned on him told a recent focus group. “It felt like kind of trying to buy people’s votes, which honestly felt like in elementary when the class president was like, hey we’re going to take you to the water park if you vote for me. It’s like, I don’t think it works like that.” But for voters in swing states who got a check, it could still matter. One survey published in 2022 found receiving a physically personalized check in the mail during the pandemic was associated with a much greater self-reported likelihood of voting for Trump in 2020, and those gains mainly came from out partisans. The issue for Trump comes if these checks are mostly going to Obamacare enrollees whose premiums have gone up by more than just $500 since he took office and who view the money as something like a bribe before the election rather than an actual long-term solution to lowering household costs. Spending $500.50 per mailer would be absurd as a normal campaign expenditure, but since Trump’s checks and letter are a government rebate, his campaign and super PAC didn’t have to spend a dime and he got out his message regardless. If enough voters in key states are swayed by the one-time payment, it could prove to be the best $0 the Trump campaign spent. Subscribe [ ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/why-independent-candidates-are-making) [ Why independent candidates are making independence central to their brand ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/why-independent-candidates-are-making) Hunter Schwarz · Oct 6 [ Read full story ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/why-independent-candidates-are-making) [ ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/these-designers-and-grocery-nerds) [ These designers and grocery nerds will brand Mamdani’s NYC grocery stores ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/these-designers-and-grocery-nerds) Hunter Schwarz · Oct 2 [ Read full story ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/these-designers-and-grocery-nerds) Trump wants to turn his first-ever golf course into a government course for presidents
Exclusive: House Democrats ask Kimberly Guilfoyle for records related to alleged pay-to-pay scheme
Democrats from the House Oversight Committee on Thursday asked U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle for financial records and communications with Trump administration officials after allegations that she engaged in a pay-for-play scheme.
A looming Social Security debate: From the Politics Desk
Plus, Democrats’ corporate PAC dilemma.
Speaker Johnson says he doesn’t know what’s next for him if GOP loses House
The remarks prompted speculation the Republican leader might retire from politics if Democrats retake the chamber.